The Republic of Plato, the Socratic thought process

In The Republic of Plato1, Socrates provides us with a profound thought-process for expanding one's mind and knowledge. Its purpose is to seek truth and clarity. His method seems to be as effective in current times as once proposed by Socrates. Often, his starting point is asking inquiring questions that arise from his interlocutor's belief on a given subject. They both enter a maze and as they exit, the interlocutor's position is weakened. Simultaneously, Socrates' …

…the commitment of reflection by being cognizant and applying the four segments, as shown in the diagram. This method will lead you into a maze and as you exit, right or wrong, with acquired knowledge you will never be the same. There is still a problem, wisdom may be a possibility but it cannot be guaranteed. Regardless, inward reflection of our inner and external environment provides for a meaningful life. 1 Allan Bloom's Translation, second edition, 1991