On the Socratic Method

In the dialogue called Alcibiades, part of the works of Plato (roughly 428-348 BCE), we see a method of dialectical questioning or “Socratic Method.”  Socrates helps Alcibiades realize that there is a contradiction in his thinking, which was a belief that it is sometimes advantageous to do what is unjust.  Socrates plays the actor of questioner and Alcibiades the answerer, discussing questions and answers about the nature of justice.  Socrates questions Alcibiades about the difference of what might be advantageous and what truly is, and the relation of justice to the wellbeing of the soul.  Also, Socrates asks whether someone may be just while committing unjust acts.  Although, some teachers use a method of direct line of correction, Socrates acts more of a guide to help the student go through self-examination in order to get true understanding through self-discovery and personal reflection.  Socrates helped Alcibiades reflect on his assumptions and get clarity on what is just and unjust. The Socratic Method is a philosophical form of cross-examination designed to reveal contradictions and guide the interlocutor toward intellectual and moral clarity.

Reference:

Plato (1997). Plato: Complete Works. Hackett Publishing. https://bookshelf.vitalsource.com/books/9781603846707