Unexamined

Unexamined is an adjective describing something that has not been inspected, tested, or subjected to critical scrutiny. It is commonly applied to beliefs, assumptions, data, processes, or experiences that have not been analyzed or questioned.

In philosophy, the phrase the unexamined life is associated with Socrates and appears in Plato's dialogues. It expresses the idea that living well requires ongoing reflection on one’s values, choices, and conduct rather than accepting things at face value.

Common usages include unexamined bias, unexamined assumptions, and unexamined consequences. In everyday language, these phrases point to beliefs or consequences that may influence behavior or judgment without conscious awareness. In scientific and analytical contexts, unexamined data or variables can pose problems for reasoning and conclusions if they are not recognized or controlled.

Related concepts include examination and critical thinking. The term often contrasts with self-reflection or self-examination, which emphasize deliberate scrutiny of one’s motives and beliefs. In ethics, sociology, and cultural critique, attention to unexamined structures or norms can reveal hidden drivers of action and power dynamics. Overall, unexamined denotes potential gaps in awareness that can affect judgment, behavior, and interpretation.