EDF 1005 Reflection Paper #11

Jackie Lawrence
EDF 1005
Reflection Paper #11

Ancient Greek philosopher Socrates believed that people should focus on who they truly are at the core and what type of habits and behaviors they should focus on and develop. He spent much of his life speaking to whoever would listen, whether it be the people in the marketplace or in homes of the wealthy. He thought moral actions could occur only after one examined their own character, that challenging ignorance would ultimately formulate wisdom. Pursuing a good, moral soul was much more honorable then acquiring money or success. Being wicked and evil means you have a rotting soul and this is even worse than death. Socrates’ elenthus leads to moral knowledge and an understanding that behaving righteously will lead to enlightenment. He urged his followers to question their beliefs, challenge them, and ultimately sharpen their morality. Many influential figures from Athens believed that the elenthus had little to no validity for discovering truth, mainly because he questioned their wisdom. Because of his teachings and “corrupting” the Greek youths, Socrates was ordered to drink hemlock by the Athenian Senate, condemning him to death. Despite this, Socrates believed that he was enlightened, and no human being could ruin his state, even through death, and impose evil on him.
Regardless of his fate, Socrates’ beliefs have influenced Western education in a variety of ways. The method of elenchus, or inquiry, is still used today, and we also hold his five cardinal virtues in high regard. Today, we encourage students to question what they are taught, using critical thinking on an everyday basis. We value those who are educated and knowledgeable in America, although I sometimes think we sometimes neglect to challenge their decisions enough. Socrates taught that wisdom is based on practical, everyday thinking. In order for our future generations to become successful, educators and influencers must cultivate this type of thinking in our children. Daily life experience will eventually generate wisdom, and may even answer those seemingly impossible questions we all ponder. Education brings us expertise in specific subject areas, but the process of education helps to expand our mind and bring true awareness into play. I think this is what Socrates was ultimately trying to teach his followers.