Method and Morality: Elenchus from Socrates to Wittgenstein

Synthese 205 (117):1-28 (2025)
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Abstract

This paper argues that the later Wittgenstein’s philosophical practice constitutes an elaboration of the Socratic search for truth by question-and-answer adversary argument, which led Wittgenstein to develop new methods for uncovering and resolving deep disagreements. On a methodological level, it is argued that this Socratic method (known as Socratic elenchus) is essentially a search for deep disagreement and necessarily raises philosophical questions concerning morality.

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Citations of this work

Die Paradoxie und paradoxe Objekte.Sebastian Sunday-Grève - 2025 - Deutsche Zeitschrift für Philosophie 73 (4):451-476. Translated by Peter Hintz.

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References found in this work

S. - 2008 - In A. P. Martinich, A Hobbes Dictionary. Wiley-Blackwell. pp. 269-298.
Verbal Disputes.David J. Chalmers - 2011 - Philosophical Review 120 (4):515-566.
Wittgenstein on rules and private language.Saul Kripke - 1982 - Revue Philosophique de la France Et de l'Etranger 173 (4):496-499.

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