Interpretations of Socrates's definition of wisdom

A detailed Summary of Interpretations of Socrates's definition of wisdom


".... he went to Delphi at one time and ventured to ask the oracle...he asked if any man was wiser than I, and the Pythian replied that no one was wiser..." 21b

The oracle speaks in amphiboly. An amphiboly is a statement whose meaning is indeterminate in a peculiar way. The statement has an obvious meaning that is false and a hidden or concealed meaning which is true. It often requires an interpretation, which is done by the shrine's priest. When Socrates states the oracular respond of god, he does not give an adequate interpretation of the statement. This has lead to the inconsistency in his claims on wisdom.

By suggesting different interpretations of the statements, this contradiction could be resolved. A detail analysis of the two conflicting statements will gives a deeper insight as to what Socrates really mean when he speaks of wisdom.

Socrates totally agrees with God when he says (through the oracle) ,"wisdom is worthless." To understand why Socrates coincides with that statement, there are three c


onvictions of his that must be considered. One, to claim that you have wisdom, but in fact not, is ignorant. Two, to say that you do not have wisdom and acknowledge such fact is wisdom. Three, to possess wisdom but do not speak of it is true wisdom. Socrates belongs to the second group. The confession that he does not posses it is wisdom in itself. According to Socrates, this wisdom is worthless because it is not true wisdom. However, even though such wisdom is worthless, it is nevertheless, wisdom. To choose between being a fool and being wise, Socrates goes for the latter. Socrates knows that he knows nothing. This paradox is what makes him the wisest among the mortal.

People often assert that they do have the knowledge, and that the knowledge they think they possess is the basis of their claim to wealth, reputation and honors. They honestly believe that they deserve it. Socrates refuses to endorse such approach to life; he strongly believes that wisdom does not come with wealth, reputation and honors. Wealth,

Some common words found in the essay are:
According Socrates, , reputation honors, wealth reputation honors, wealth reputation, true wisdom, wisdom worthless, strive wise fool, wise fool, worthiness wisdom, worthless nevertheless, value worthiness, strive wise, approach life,

Approximate Word count = 688
Approximate Pages = 3 (250 words per page double spaced)

Category: Miscellaneous

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