sokratic

Sokratic is an adjective referring to Socrates or to practices associated with his method of inquiry. The term often signals a connection to the Socratic method, an approach to dialogue that uses questions to stimulate critical thinking and to draw out ideas. In some languages the spelling Sokratic reflects a transliteration of the Greek term Sokratikos.

Historical basis: Socrates used elenchus, a cross-examining dialogue aimed at testing definitions. Our knowledge of his method comes mainly from his students, especially Plato and Xenophon, and from later interpretations. The label "Sokratic" is used to emphasize the methodological continuity with that classical practice rather than a modern system.

Characteristics: The approach is dialogic, question-led, and aims to clarify concepts and expose inconsistencies rather than deliver didactic content. A Sokratic facilitator asks open-ended questions, invites scrutiny of assumptions, and guides participants toward greater self-reflection. The process often seeks a shared definition or a more precise articulation of the issue.

Modern usage and limits: In education, Sokratic questioning is used to foster critical thinking, argumentation, and problem solving. It also appears in cognitive-behavioral therapy and coaching as a structured way to examine beliefs. Critics warn that it can feel adversarial if misapplied, and it requires skilled moderation to avoid leading or discouraging learners.

See also: Socratic method, elenchus, Socrates.