The Socratic Method for Filtering Modern Nonsense

The classical Greek philosopher Socrates proposed three simple yet profound principles for sifting through the noise: Is it true? Is it relevant? Is it friendly or at least beneficial? These principles are timeless and offer valuable guidance for today’s leaders, professionals, and anyone seeking clarity and truth.

1. Is It True?

The foundation of any meaningful conversation or information lies in its truthfulness. Unfortunately, not everything we encounter today passes this test.

Example: Influencers Selling Mirage Courses Many influencers promote online courses promising miraculous results—get-rich-quick schemes, instant weight loss programs, or guaranteed business success. Often, these claims lack a factual basis. Testimonials might be exaggerated, and success stories are 100% survivor bias. Critical examination reveals a lack of verifiable evidence supporting their bold claims.

2. Is It Relevant?

Relevance is about discerning whether the information is pertinent to the issue or conversation. Socrates encouraged focusing on what truly matters. Many modern distractions fail this test.

Example: Corporate Transformation Projects Imagine a company undergoing a “transformation” project that merely involves superficial changes like rebranding or moving office furniture around, akin to rearranging deck chairs on the Titanic. These efforts are often touted as significant changes but do little to address underlying issues such as outdated processes, lack of innovation, or employee dissatisfaction. While appearing significant, the project is irrelevant to the real problems facing the organization.

3. Is It Friendly or at Least Beneficial?

The final Socratic filter is about the impact of our words and actions. Are they kind or beneficial? Socrates believed in the power of constructive dialogue. Unfortunately, many modern practices fail to meet this standard.

Example: Overly Aggressive Sales Techniques Sales techniques that pressure or guilt-trip potential customers into purchasing fail the friendliness and beneficial tests. This includes aggressive upselling, guilt-based selling (e.g., “If you care about your health, you’ll buy this product”), or relentless follow-ups. Such methods can create resentment and buyer’s remorse, undermining long-term customer relationships and trust.

Recognizing and Avoiding Nonsense

To effectively filter out nonsense, applying these Socratic principles consistently is essential. Here’s how you can approach it:

• Truth Verification: Scrutinize the claims made in any communication. Ask for evidence and be sceptical of grandiose promises without backing.
• Relevance Check: Evaluate whether the actions or information directly address the core issues. Avoid getting sidetracked by surface-level changes that don’t impact the fundamental problems.
• Benefit Analysis: Consider whether the interaction or communication adds value. Focus on contributions that build up rather than tear down, fostering a more positive and constructive environment.