Description

Introduction

In ancient Athens, Socrates walked the streets, posing challenging questions that sparked both admiration and controversy. Amidst war, disease, and political turmoil, he developed his philosophical methods, encouraging people to critically examine their ideas and assumptions. His approach remains relevant today, offering practical tools for problem-solving, decision-making, and self-discovery. By exploring the dramatic events that shaped Socratic philosophy, you can apply his timeless methods to everyday situations, gaining a clearer and deeper understanding of the world and yourself. Socratic thinking continues to be a powerful guide for navigating life’s complexities.

One

Socrates, a stonemason-turned-soldier, served in the Athenian army during the Peloponnesian War. He became known for his unconventional approach to life, questioning his fellow soldiers about what truly mattered. Unlike others who prioritized wealth and status, Socrates focused on understanding wisdom itself. In Athens’ golden age, many claimed to have answers about how to live well, but Socrates saw through their facade. Through his experiences in war, he learned that those who admitted their ignorance were more likely to learn.

A pivotal moment in Socrates’ journey to wisdom came when the Oracle at Delphi declared him the wisest person. Puzzled by this claim, Socrates questioned people who claimed to have knowledge, including politicians, poets, and craftsmen. He discovered that while they excelled in their specific trades, they falsely believed this expertise extended to other areas. This insight led to the foundation of Socratic wisdom: true understanding begins with acknowledging what we don’t know. This approach proved invaluable during Athens’ devastating plague and war, as it allowed for more informed decision-making.

To apply Socratic wisdom today, you can adopt three simple practices. First, before forming an opinion, identify what you don’t yet understand about the situation. Second, when someone claims expertise, ask them to explain their assumptions. Finally, make it a habit to admit one thing you previously thought you knew but now realize you don’t fully understand. By embracing these practices, you can cultivate a deeper understanding of the world and yourself, and develop a more nuanced approach to decision-making and problem-solving.

Two

Socrates’ method of questioning was a powerful tool for cultivating curiosity and critical thinking. When engaging with individuals like the young Alcibiades, he would ask simple questions that gradually led to deeper insights. By starting with examples familiar to his conversation partners, Socrates would guide them toward universal principles, revealing gaps in their understanding. This approach allowed people to discover inconsistencies in their own thinking, rather than being told they were wrong.

Socrates’ courage in confronting power was evident in his interactions with Critias, a former student who later became a leader of the Thirty Tyrants. Despite the risks, Socrates continued to ask questions about justice and good governance, exposing contradictions between Critias’ principles and actions. This method of questioning was not about proving others wrong, but about helping them discover truth for themselves.

To apply Socrates’ method in your own life, start by engaging others in conversations about topics they know well. Ask questions that move from specific examples to broader principles, and help people test their ideas against their own experiences. By adopting this approach, you can cultivate genuine curiosity and encourage critical thinking, leading to more meaningful and insightful conversations. With patience and practice, you can help others – and yourself – develop a deeper understanding of the world and its complexities.

Three

In ancient Athens, Socrates developed a powerful tool for finding truth amidst chaos: the pursuit of clear definitions. During a time of war and plague, public speakers filled the marketplace with competing claims about justice, courage, and duty. Socrates would ask them to define these terms precisely, revealing that many disagreements stemmed from unclear definitions. By seeking clear definitions, people could better understand the issues and make more informed decisions.

This method proved particularly effective during the trial of the generals after the battle of Arginusae. Socrates, serving on the council, asked the citizens to define what a just legal process would look like in this situation. By clarifying terms, he exposed the confusion between mob anger and legal process. Although he ultimately failed to prevent the generals’ execution, his stand for clear definitions became legendary.

Today, this method remains relevant. When faced with competing claims and heated arguments, it’s essential to ask for clear definitions. By doing so, you can uncover the root of disagreements and engage in more productive discussions. To practice this method, start by defining values you hold dear, such as loyalty or trust. Write down your precise definition and test it against real-world examples. You may find that what seems obvious becomes complex under careful examination. Clear definitions can transform vague disagreements into focused discussions, helping you navigate complex issues and find truth.

Four

Socrates’ unwavering commitment to his principles was evident in his refusal to compromise his values, even in the face of danger. When the Thirty Tyrants ordered him to arrest an innocent man, Socrates chose to disobey, risking his own safety. He believed that unjust actions harm the person who commits them more than their victims. This stance was rooted in his decades-long examination of human nature, which led him to conclude that virtue is knowledge – once you truly understand what’s right, you’ll naturally choose it.

Socrates’ method of questioning and dialogue helped people discover their own motivations and values. During the democratic restoration in Athens, he challenged both sides of the civil conflict to examine their motives and consider what justice truly required. Many found his questions uncomfortable, but some gained insight into their own desires and principles. This approach can be applied today, helping individuals develop ethical clarity and make informed decisions.

To cultivate ethical clarity, it’s essential to regularly examine your motivations and choices. When faced with difficult decisions, ask yourself if you would make the same choice if everyone knew about it. Reflect on your influences and consider whether you’re acting from careful thought or just following the crowd. By practicing this self-reflection, you can develop your ability to make principled decisions, even in challenging situations. Integrity is not about being perfect, but about maintaining your core values, even when it brings no immediate reward.

Five

In 399 BCE, Socrates stood trial before 500 Athenian jurors, charged with corrupting the youth and disrespecting the gods. The real issue, however, was his persistent questioning and refusal to conform to popular opinions. Socrates turned his trial into a lesson about integrity, arguing that Athens needed someone to challenge assumptions and stimulate critical thinking. When offered a deal to live if he stopped questioning, he famously replied that the unexamined life is not worth living, accepting the death sentence with calm dignity.

Socrates’ execution ironically spread his ideas further, with his students, particularly Plato, ensuring his legacy lived on. Today, his methods continue to inspire people to examine their beliefs carefully, ask probing questions, and stand firm for truth despite pressure to conform. You can practice Socratic courage in your daily life by asking deeper questions, voicing doubts, and challenging popular opinions.

To embody Socrates’ spirit, start small by examining one popular opinion each day. Ask for evidence, consider motivations, and notice reactions when questioning accepted ideas. By choosing truth over comfort, you keep Socrates’ legacy alive, cultivating a more thoughtful and critically thinking approach to life. This courage to question and challenge can lead to greater insight and understanding, even in the face of adversity.

Conclusion

The key takeaway from “How to Think Like Socrates” by Donald Robertson is that Socrates’ timeless wisdom offers practical methods for living a more examined and meaningful life. By embracing his approach – admitting what you don’t know, asking thoughtful questions, seeking clear definitions, and maintaining integrity – you can make better decisions and cultivate courage in the face of challenges. Socrates’ central insight, that the unexamined life isn’t worth living, encourages you to think critically, question assumptions, and stand firm for truth, leading to a more authentic and principled life.

About the author

Donald Robertson is a cognitive-behavioral psychotherapist and writer with expertise in ancient Greek and Roman philosophy. As the founding member of Modern Stoicism and creator of Plato’s Academy Centre, he has authored several books, including “The Philosophy of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy” (2010), “Stoicism and the Art of Happiness” (2014), and “How to Think Like a Roman Emperor” (2019). His work bridges academic knowledge of classical philosophy with practical experience in therapy and coaching, applying timeless wisdom to modern challenges.

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