Why Socrates Refrained from Writing

Socrates chose not to put his thoughts into writing during his lifetime, and several reasons back this decision. Much of what we know about him comes from later philosophers like Plato and Aristotle. Here are some reasons for his choice:

1. Socrates viewed the written word as a poor substitute for authentic dialogue.
2. He believed that written text creates an illusion of knowledge without true understanding.
3. He argued that writing diminishes memory; when you want to forget something, you write it down.

I’m not suggesting that reading is unnecessary (after all, I'm writing this article!). Instead, consider Socrates’ perspective in today’s context, where practical application is increasingly valued. This is particularly relevant for programming—stop drowning in theoretical texts without applying your knowledge through coding!

The Cone of Learning

The graph above illustrates that after two weeks, we retain only a fraction of what we read, but an impressive 90% of what we actively do! Isn't that remarkable? Make a conscious choice to prioritize practical experiences over theoretical study, and prepare for transformative results.

My Learning Process

Let me share my approach to learning programming, which can be applied to various disciplines. Begin with the theoretical foundation. For instance, if you're diving into artificial intelligence, first familiarize yourself with its core components, then put those concepts into practice.

Understanding the theory is crucial, but the emphasis should always shift towards practical application.

"I Know That I Know Nothing"

This famous phrase, attributed to Socrates, carries significant weight in philosophical discussions. On the surface, it may seem contradictory or confusing—how can one acknowledge ignorance while claiming to know something?

In Socratic thought, this statement encapsulates a lifelong pursuit of wisdom. Socrates believed that true understanding emerges through persistent questioning and engaging in meaningful dialogues. His wisdom lay in his relentless curiosity and his readiness to challenge his own beliefs. He asserted that a life unexamined is not worth living; true fulfillment requires self-reflection.

The essence of Socrates' wisdom is his acceptance of ignorance, which opens the door to new learning opportunities. To thrive in life, one must recognize their own limitations. This mindset is integral to my journey in programming and serves as a daily reminder to embrace continuous learning in a competitive landscape.

The Essence of Socratic Philosophy

Socratic philosophy is fundamentally eudaemonist, emphasizing the pursuit of happiness as life’s ultimate goal. This philosophy encourages actions that are beneficial not only in the short term but also in the long run. In our modern world, this can be particularly challenging, as we are often tempted to prioritize immediate gratification over enduring fulfillment.

According to Socrates, genuine happiness and satisfaction stem from a life of virtue and excellence, which necessitates a long-term commitment to doing what is right.

Conclusion: Embracing Philosophy for Growth

If you're eager to expand your understanding of the world, philosophy offers a treasure trove of insights. By delving into the thoughts of great philosophers throughout history, you can uncover new perspectives on reality, existence, and the meaning of life itself. Don't let this opportunity for personal growth slip away.

Engaging with the works of philosophers like Socrates, Plato, Descartes, and Kant exposes you to a wealth of ideas that can challenge your preconceptions and broaden your worldview. Whether your interests lie in ethics, metaphysics, or any other branch of philosophy, there are countless thinkers whose concepts can deepen your understanding.

So why not take the plunge into philosophical exploration today? With a plethora of resources available both online and in print, now is the perfect time to immerse yourself in this intellectual tradition. Regardless of your background, there’s something in philosophy that will ignite your curiosity and provoke thought. Embrace this new way of thinking—your mind (and life) will undoubtedly benefit.