maieutiké

Maieutiké, often translated as "midwifery," is a philosophical method developed by Socrates and discussed in Plato's dialogues. Socrates used the term to describe his unique approach to eliciting knowledge from his interlocutors. He saw himself not as a teacher imparting information, but as a midwife who helps others give birth to their own ideas and understanding.

The process involved a series of questions and answers, a method known as the Socratic method or elenchus. Socrates would engage someone in a conversation about a particular concept, such as justice, virtue, or piety. Through careful questioning, he would expose inconsistencies, contradictions, or assumptions within their beliefs. This process of intellectual challenge, often leading to a state of aporia (perplexity or confusion), was intended to clear away false notions and prepare the individual to discover truth for themselves.

Socrates famously claimed that he himself possessed no knowledge, but that the wisdom resided within the person he was questioning. His role was to draw it out, much like a midwife assists in the birth of a child. The maieutiké method emphasized self-discovery and critical thinking, aiming to lead individuals to a deeper understanding of themselves and the world around them, rather than simply accepting received wisdom.