Socrates' Search for Wisdom: An Exegetical Theory

Socrates recommends that we live examined lives, but what exactly does that mean? Should we criticise and dismantle our moral convictions? Or construct theories of virtue and the good? This book argues that the answer is neither—the best human life is one of moral learning in which we actualise our potential for knowledge. Socrates urges us to examine our lives, but what exactly does that mean? Should we question our moral convictions, or construct theories of virtue and the good? This book argues for a third path: the best human life is one of moral learning, in which we actualise our potential for wisdom. Readers will gain a fresh perspective on the Socratic method—not as mere argument, but as a process of inquiry. The author develops an exegetical model of dialogue and shows its fidelity to Plato’s texts. He then situates this model in the scholarly literature and uses it to clarify several puzzling features of Socrates’ approach. The result is a deeper understanding of Socrates’ method and his philosophical life. Socrates’ Search for Wisdom: An Exegetical Theory will appeal to scholars, students of Greek philosophy, and general readers, continuing the Socratic tradition of engaging specialists and non-specialists alike.