Dialogue and Discovery

A Study in Socratic Method

By Kenneth Seeskin | Publisher: State University of New York Press

About the book

This book examines the Socratic method of elenchus, or refutation. Refutation by its very nature is a conflict, which in the hands of Plato becomes high drama. The continuing conversation in which it occurs is more a test of character than of intellect. Dialogue and Discovery shows that, in his conversations, Socrates seeks to define moral qualities—moral essences—with the goal of improving the soul of the respondent.

Ethics underlies epistemology because the discovery of philosophic truth imposes moral demands on the respondent. The recognition that moral qualities such as honesty, humility, and courage are necessary to successful inquiry is the key to the understanding of the Socratic paradox that virtue is knowledge.

The dialogues receiving the most emphasis are the Apology, Gorgias, Protagoras, and Meno.

Editions of Dialogue and Discovery

Hardcover
ISBN 9780887063374
Paperback
ISBN 9780887063367
PDF
ISBN 9781438419329

Read an Excerpt

This book examines the Socratic method of elenchus, or refutation. Refutation by its very nature is a conflict, which in the hands of Plato becomes high drama. The continuing conversation in which it occurs is more a test of character than of intellect. Dialogue and Discovery shows that, in his conversations, Socrates seeks to define moral qualities—moral essences—with the goal of improving the soul of the respondent.

Ethics underlies epistemology because the discovery of philosophic truth imposes moral demands on the respondent. The recognition that moral qualities such as honesty, humility, and courage are necessary to successful inquiry is the key to the understanding of the Socratic paradox that virtue is knowledge.

The dialogues receiving the most emphasis are the Apology, Gorgias, Protagoras, and Meno.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Dialogue and Discovery about?

This book examines the Socratic method of elenchus, or refutation. Refutation by its very nature is a conflict, which in the hands of Plato becomes high drama. The continuing conversation in which it occurs is more a test of character than of intellect. Dialogue and Discovery shows that, in his conversations, Socrates seeks to define moral qualities—moral essences—with the goal of improving the soul of the respondent.

Ethics underlies epistemology because the discovery of philosophic truth imposes moral demands on the respondent. The recognition that moral qualities such as honesty, humility, and courage are necessary to successful inquiry is the key to the understanding of the Socratic paradox that virtue is knowledge.

The dialogues receiving the most emphasis are the Apology, Gorgias, Protagoras, and Meno.

What core themes, tropes, or subjects are explored in Dialogue and Discovery?

Philosophy and Religion > Philosophy

Where can I read a sample of Dialogue and Discovery?

You can read an official preview of the few pages here https://www.book2look.com/book/9780887063374

How long is Dialogue and Discovery and how many pages does it have?

Dialogue and Discovery has 179 page(s)

Is Dialogue and Discovery part of a series, and can it be read as a standalone?

Yes it is a part of series SUNY series in Philosophy

Who is/are the Author/s of the book Dialogue and Discovery?

Kenneth Seeskin

Who is the Publisher of the book Dialogue and Discovery?

State University of New York Press

What are the ISBN numbers for the physical and digital editions?

Dialogue and Discovery is available as hardcover(ISBN 9780887063374) and paperback(ISBN 9780887063367) and pdf(ISBN 9781438419329)

Where can I buy Dialogue and Discovery online or support local independent bookshops?

You can buy Dialogue and Discovery from below

Where can I buy Dialogue and Discovery?