The Socrates Method: The Art of Asking Questions Cycle of articles: 2 of 5 Bashny.Net

The Socrates Method: The Art of Asking Questions
This is the second article in the Socrates series. Reference to the first article.



The Socratic Method: What Is It and Why Is It Important?
The Socratic method or dialectical method is a method of conducting philosophical conversations developed by the ancient Greek philosopher Socrates. The main purpose of the method is to ask questions that cause the interlocutor to carefully consider their statements, checking their logical validity.
The method is based on a series of consecutive questions that reveal contradictions or weaknesses in the beliefs of the interlocutor. This helps to better understand the problem and contributes to the development of critical thinking.



Example of Socrates' dialectical conversations
One of the most famous examples of Socrates’ use of his method is the dialogue with Menon, which discusses the nature of virtue. Socrates leads the interlocutor to understand that at first glance obvious truths can be false or incomplete. Instead of simply answering questions, Socrates encourages reflection by asking ever more clarifying questions.


How did this change philosophy and science?
The Socratic method was a revolutionary contribution to philosophy and science because it provided a new way of investigating truth through dialogue and discussion rather than dogmatism. This approach has become the basis for many modern philosophical and scientific research methods, including critical thinking and the scientific method.
Philosophers such as Plato and Aristotle have used this method extensively in their writings, and it continues to be the primary tool for analyzing ideas and arguments in various disciplines.


The Influence of Method on Modern Critical Thinking
In the modern world, the Socratic method is the basis of critical thinking. It teaches you to ask the right questions, analyze the answers, and uncover hidden premises. The application of the method helps not only in philosophy, but also in everyday life, where it is important to make informed decisions and see weaknesses in the arguments of others.


How can the Socratic method be applied in everyday life?
Applying the Socratic method to everyday life can help in solving complex problems, improving communication, and deeply analyzing one’s beliefs. Examples of its use include conducting dialogues with colleagues, friends, or family members, where instead of a simple answer, clarifying questions can be asked to clarify the motives and beliefs of the interlocutor.


How is it different from other philosophical methods?
Unlike other philosophical methods that focus on building arguments or formulating theories, the Socratic method focuses on exploring existing ideas through questions. This makes it a unique tool for finding truth and identifying logical contradictions, which distinguishes it from methods such as deduction or induction.


This article is part of a series of articles about Socrates. Socrates: Socrates: Philosopher and Citizen.