How did the public respond to socrates ideas?

Well, if you know how he died, you will know how everyone responded to his ideas.
Socrates was sentenced to death by poison because of his ideas and ideals. He didn't support democracy which obviously clashed with the leaders in Athens who wanted to silence him. He stood behind his beliefs and was unwavering, however, that led him to his death.

Because broadest terms allows the law flexibility depending on changing society and circumstances.