Book Byte #345 "How to Think Like Socrates" by Donald J. Robertson
Ancient Philosophy as a Way of Life in the Modern World
📣 Curious Quotes from the Author
“The only true wisdom is in knowing you know nothing.”
“The unexamined life is not worth living.”
“I cannot teach anybody anything. I can only make them think”
“There is only one good, knowledge, and one evil, ignorance.”
“Be kind, for everyone you meet is fighting a hard battle.”
“Strong minds discuss ideas, average minds discuss events, weak minds discuss people.”
“Wonder is the beginning of wisdom.”
“To find yourself, think for yourself.”
“Education is the kindling of a flame, not the filling of a vessel.”
“By all means marry; if you get a good wife, you’ll become happy; if you get a bad one, you’ll become a philosopher.”
📚 Cognition of the Book’s Big Idea
Ancient knowledge was turned by Socrates into useful techniques that we can all still employ today. Begin by acknowledging your ignorance, asking thoughtful questions that progress from concrete examples to general principles, demanding precise explanations when discussing significant concepts, and upholding your integrity even at great personal expense. Socrates demonstrated through political unrest, plague, and war that challenging our presumptions and analyzing our ideas results in wiser choices and a more fulfilling existence.
His main realization—that the life without doubt isn't worth living—pushes us to consider our decisions more carefully, challenge our presumptions, and stick to the truth even when it's challenging. By using his techniques, you not only improve your thought processes but also gain the bravery to live morally.
Until Tomorrow,
Jason (Founder Club255)