An unexamined idea, to paraphrase Socrates, is not worth…
“An unexamined idea, to paraphrase Socrates, is not worth having and a society whose ideas are never explored for possible error may eventually find its foundations insecure.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Unexamined ideas risk societal instability; continual scrutiny prevents foundational insecurity.
In simple terms: Question ideas to keep society safe.
Encourage critical examination.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- policy making
- academic research
- public discourse
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- What ideas need reexamination today?
- How to balance doubt with action?
Overanalysis can stall progress.