The socratic method for the search for truth

Philosophy as Dialogue

The Socratic method, named after the ancient Greek philosopher Socrates, is an approach to the search for truth based on dialogue and constant questioning.

Socrates did not write treatises; He practiced philosophy by conversing with his fellow citizens in the squares of Athens.

His method did not seek to "win" an argument, but to arrive at a deeper understanding through collaboration and the elimination of misconceptions.

The Process of Question and Refutation

The method works through a process of incisive questioning.

Socrates would begin by asking his interlocutor for the definition of an abstract concept, such as justice, beauty, or virtue.

The person offered an initial definition, which Socrates then examined through a series of questions designed to reveal its contradictions or limitations.

For example, if someone defined beauty as "a beautiful maiden," Socrates might ask whether a beautiful vase or a beautiful horse is not also beautiful, thereby showing that the initial definition was incomplete.

The Aporia. The Recognition of Ignorance

Often, this process of questioning did not lead to a final, definitive answer

But rather to a state of perplexity called aporia, where the interlocutor realized that, in reality, they did not know what they thought they knew.

For Socrates, this recognition of one's own ignorance was the true beginning of wisdom.

Modern Application: Although it may be difficult to apply in ever