Socratic method

The Socratic method (also known as the method of Elenchus or Socratic debate) is a form of argumentative <a href="/facts/Dialogue/a3etwdsd">dialogue</a> between individuals based on asking and answering questions. Socratic dialogues feature in many of the works of the ancient Greek philosopher <a href="/facts/Plato/jGtT1UD5">Plato</a>, where his teacher <a href="/facts/Socrates/djIKjImv">Socrates</a> debates various philosophical issues with an "interlocutor" or "partner".
In Plato's dialogue "<a href="/facts/Theaetetus_(dialogue)/zcXHbTXp">Theaetetus</a>", Socrates describes his method as a form of "midwifery" because it is employed to help his interlocutors develop their understanding in a way analogous to a <a href="/facts/Prenatal_development/VpV3S4lu">child developing in the womb</a>. The Socratic method begins with commonly held beliefs and scrutinizes them by way of questioning to determine their internal consistency and their coherence with other beliefs and so to bring everyone closer to the truth.
In modified forms, it is employed today in a variety of <a href="/facts/Pedagogical/t1LIfLeC">pedagogical</a> contexts.

Socratic method open-in-new

Socratic method