Socratic Method Essay

641 Words3 Pages
I read an article called “The Socratic Method”, which is a Green Bag Article from the University of Chicago’s Law School. This article was written by Elizabeth Garrett in 1998, and highlights the Socratic method of teaching and the benefits of this method to law school students. Law school professors at the University of Chicago all engage in the Socratic method, as they feel it prepares their students for the world of law. The Socratic method of teaching can be an effective and important technique not only for law school students, but for all students, no matter what career they’re pursuing. The following journal entry will explain the Socratic method and its’ educational and life benefits. The Socratic method in its most basic form is the asking of questions. Socrates navigated conversations through seven stages in order to come to a better understanding of the truth. 1) Socrates unpacks the philosophical issues in an everyday conversation. 2) Socrates isolates a key philosophical term that needs analysis. 3) Socrates professes ignorance and requests the help of his companion. 4) Socrates’ companion proposes a definition of the key term. 5) Socrates analyzes the definition by asking questions that expose its weaknesses. 6) The subject produces another definition, one that improves on the earlier one. 7) The subject is made to face his own ignorance. This method was used to target fallacies and contradictions within his opponent’s argument and make his opponent aware of the inconsistencies. Socrates’ method was intended to reach a greater understanding of the truth, but not everybody appreciated and shared Socrates’ enthusiasm about his method. Law School is one of the most known platforms for the Socratic method. Lawyers must have a clear and concise thought process that leads to a flawless argument. The Socratic method is an active learning
Open Document