The Socratic method is a manner of discovering truths through your own eyes. All rolled into one, it is a system, a spirit, a method, a form of philosophical inquiry, and an intellectual approach. Socrates never explicitly stated a method, but Christopher Phillips has summarized the fundamental principles of his philosophy and distilled one. The Socratic method, on the other hand, is named after him because, more than any other before or after, Socrates models for his readers philosophy in action. This philosophy then manifests itself as a deed, a way of life, and something that any of the readers may perform (Phillips, 2001). It’s an open system of philosophical inquiry that allows you to look at things from a variety of perspectives, and it can be directly traced back to the ideas of Socrates.
Phillips also believes that using a Socratic dialogue will indicate how pluralistic people are. It will work out the kinks in abstract ideas and strange queries, showing the connections between meaningful human experiences. The prolonged attempt to investigate the repercussions of specific ideas and then give persuasive objectives and alternatives distinguishes the Socratic method from mere non-systematic inquiry. Phillips compares Socratic discussion to the scientific approach, but unlike the scientific method, it may study immeasurable concepts such as love, joy, suffering, and sadness. He then proceeds to conclude, that although the philosophy presented intends to be used to find clarity, it can often leave the reader even more puzzled than they initially were. According to Philips, Socratic method cannot and should not be contained to theory alone, instead urging the readers to explore the ways in which it shapes both their worldview and the world itself.
Reference
Phillips, C. (2001). Socrates cafe: A fresh taste of philosophy. New York: W.W. Norton.