[Speech] THE ONLY TRUE WISDOM IS IN KNOWING YOU KNOW NOTHING. - Socrates’ Declaration of Humility

Acknowledging the limits of one’s knowledge

Socrates, one of the foundational figures of Western philosophy, famously claimed that "The only true thing is in knowing you know nothing." This paradoxical statement is at the heart of the Socratic method, which involves questioning and dialogues to stimulate critical thinking and illuminate ideas. By acknowledging one's own ignorance, Socrates championed the pursuit of wisdom through continual learning and questioning, a practice that remains deeply influential in philosophical and educational practices today.

Background

1. Socrates

2. Philosopher

3. Classical Athens, oral teachings