Socrates believed that chief among his duties was to to act as a “gadfly” to the Athenian state. He saw the state as “a great and noble steed” which had to be reminded of its proper duties. Socrates believed he did this by stinging the steed of state “all day long and in all places”. No one likes their treasured beliefs challenged no matter how correctly. People then and now get pissed off and we all know what happened to Socrates. In short, he felt that provocation was essential to a healthy state and healthy discourse. What do you think?

 

Today?, opposition is not appreciated.

 

Prejudice can be seen as the wisdom of the uneducated. There is often wisdom in traditions that many who adhere to those traditions cannot defend rationally.

 

Speaking from experience no doubt...

 

This may be the most important question that I’ve asked on here. It seems that, to some in here, provocation is viewed as a bad thing. And why is it a bad thing? Well because it’s a bad thing...duh! That’s the spirit I am trying to challenge. Anything that sparks rational and respectful debate has to be a good thing. Why is this so challenging for some? I think it was Leonardo Da Vinci who said “He who truly knows has no occasion to shout”.

 

*Raises hand*
Mr. Cirdellin....can I have a hall pass to use the bathroom?

 

I am sometimes accused of being an internet troll. It is wrong to post insults. I post facts many posters do not want to be told about.

 

I say challenge everything both left and right and if the premises are strong enough then these premises will stand the test of time. But orthodoxy in the name of political correctness or even the church is toxic to human development.

 

Socrates spoke Greek and not Latin. So the post rather confuses me.

 

But Socrates did not speak it but whatever!

 

Uh huh, bye!