Socrates’ Triple Filter Test: Truth, Goodness and Usefulness

 / 

, ,
Socrates Triple Filter Test Truth Goodness and Usefulness

There’s a common knowledge story kicked around about “The Triple Filter Test.” Sometimes it involves Socrates and other times it involves an Arab scholar, but the truth of the story is the same. Here it is:

***

In ancient Greece (469 – 399 BC), Socrates was widely lauded for his wisdom.

One day the great greek philosopher came upon an acquaintance, who ran up to him excitedly and said, “Socrates, do you know what I just heard about one of your students?”

Wait a moment,” Socrates replied. “Before you tell me, I’d like you to pass a little test. It’s called the Test of Three.”Test of Three?”

“That’s correct,” Socrates continued. “Before you talk to me about my student let’s take a moment to test what you’re going to say. The first test is the Truth. Have you made absolutely sure that what you are about to tell me is true?”

“No,” the man replied, “actually I just heard about it.”

Related: 7 Thought-Provoking Lessons From Socrates, That Will Show You A Better Way Of Living

“All right,” said Socrates. “So you don’t really know if it’s true or not. Now let’s try the second test, the test of Goodness. Is what you are about to tell me about my student something good?”

“No, on the contrary…”

“So,” Socrates continued, “you want to tell me something bad about him even though you’re not certain it’s true?”

The man shrugged, a little embarrassed.

Socrates continued, “You may still pass though because there is a third test – the filter of Usefulness. Is what you want to tell me about my student going to be useful to me?”

“No, not really…”

“Well,” concluded Socrates, “if what you want to tell me is neither true nor good nor even useful, why tell it to me at all?”

The man was defeated and ashamed and said no more.

So, this triple filter test stands on three pillars – Truth, goodness, and usefulness.

triple filter test

Related: Here Are 24 Quotes From The Wisest Man Ever Lived: Socrates

In this digital world, information travels faster than fire. Isn’t it? This triple filter test is an interesting trick that can help you deal with gossips and rumors, which is a burning issue in this social media age. 

People post every bit and piece of their life on social media, which makes them prone to gossips. Sometimes what you hear about people and what others know about you may not be correct. Not each and every message presented on social media is authentic. Often facts are integrated with fiction!

Related: Use the Socratic Method To Win Any Argument

If the information is fake or negative it can drain your mental energy and cripple your confidence, but motivate or energize you, if the message is true, positive, and useful. So, you must be careful about what you are going to say or listen to.

And, Socrates’s triple filter test is an excellent guide for you!

Before speaking something you must check out if you are sure what you are going to say is true. And if it is at all a good thing to say or useful to others. The filter of truth, goodness, and usefulness set a base for healthy and constructive communication. This is the reason Socrates was a great philosopher and held in such high esteem.

However, it may not always be easy to apply this triple filter test because the information you receive in the day-to-day life cannot be defined as true or necessary or good. 

So, if you want to check whether the given information is true you may also consider other parameters like – will you be able to prove the information or verify the facts or will it tarnish your reputation and so on. 

Related: Secrets Of Wisdom: How to Be Wise

Similarly, if you want to check out the goodness of the messages you receive, then you must consider – if it can help you and others improve, or evoke positive emotions,  and change the present situation for good.

Likewise, while testing the usefulness of the information, check out if it can be put into good use, will there be any loss if it is unshared, and so on. 

I hope this triple filter test helps you cope up with annoying rumors or gossips in your friend circle, workplace, or social network.  

Feel free to share your thoughts in comments below and share the article with your friends.


Socrates The Triple Filter Test
Socrates Triple Filter Test Truth Goodness and Usefulness Pin

— Share —

— About the Author —

Responses

  1. Sandra Greenwood Avatar
    Sandra Greenwood

    I find the first part, “truthfulness” to be somewhat difficult. In my experience, “truth” may be perceived differently by several people with each perception being correct or accurate. While I’d never heard of this triple filter test, I understand its value.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *



Up Next

Decoding Referent Power Meaning: 8 Key Aspects and Its Historic Impact on Leadership Dynamics

Decoding Referent Power Meaning: Eight Key Aspects and Examples

Have you ever wondered why certain individuals have a remarkable ability to inspire and motivate others? What makes them so influential and respected? The answer lies in a concept known as referent power. Let’s explore referent power meaning, and its significance in leadership and the workplace to illustrate its impact.

What is Referent Power?

Referent power meaning: Referent power is a form of influence that stems from an individual’s likability, charisma, and personal connection with others. 



Up Next

Laughter Unleashed: 10 Good Comedy Movies On Netflix That You Should Binge On Right Now

Good Comedy Movies On Netflix That're Perfect For Binging

In a world where every day brings its own set of challenges and hurdles, finding a reason to laugh can feel like discovering a pot of gold at the end of a rainbow. Thankfully, these good comedy movies on Netflix, comes galloping to the rescue, guaranteed to make you chuckle, giggle, and belly laugh your worries away.

These films and TV shows are not just mere movies; they are your ticket to a laughter carnival, a rollercoaster ride of hilarity that promises to whisk you away from the mundane and the stressful, plunging you into a world brimming with humour and mirth from the get-go. 



Up Next

Which Magical Beast Is Your Spirit Guardian? Take This Harry Potter Patronus Quiz To Find Out

The Harry Potter Patronus Quiz: Interesting Types

Ever wonder if there’s a hidden connection between you and a particular animal? One way to find out is with the help of the Harry Potter Patronus quiz!

What is my Patronus?

In the magical world of Harry Potter, a Patronus is a powerful, protective spell that takes the form of an animal. It’s unique to each individual and reflects their innermost qualities and emotions.

The Patronus is summoned to ward off Dementors, dark creatures that feed on happiness and can instill overwhelming fea



Up Next

The 10 Most Riveting And Best Music Documentaries Of All Time

Ten Most Riveting And Best Music Documentaries Of All Time

Lights dim, anticipation builds, and the stage is set for a symphony of storytelling that transcends time and echoes the very essence of human emotions. Music has the power to evoke the deepest depths of our souls. And what better way to unlock the enigmatic world of melodies, rhythms, and lyrics than through the lens of some of the best music documentaries?

Music documentaries are windows into the lives of the artists who have shaped our sonic landscapes, revealing the triumphs, tribulations, and untold stories behind the hits that have become the soundtrack to our lives.

From the birth of entire genres to the rise and fall of iconic bands, these best music documentaries of all time celebrate the relentless pursuit of artistic expression. They delve into the lives



Up Next

Are You Quick Enough To Find The Hidden Elephant In 5 Seconds? Prove Your Visual Power Now

Find The Hidden Elephant: Five-Sec Fun Illusion Challenge

There is always more beneath the surface! Are you ready to put your perception to the ultimate test and find the hidden elephant in this captivating elephant optical illusion picture?

Prepare to be captivated as we delve into the world of elephant optical illusions, where appearances can be deceiving, and hidden wonders await those with a keen eye.

This “Find the elephant optical illusion” is meant for those who dare to challenge their visual acumen and explore the mysteries hidden within a seemingly ordinary image.

Read more here:



Up Next

What Is The Scientifically Best Music For Studying? 6 Musical Genres Proven To Boost Study Sessions

Scientifically Best Music For Studying? Six Musical Genres

Picture this: you’re sitting down to tackle a daunting study session, armed with textbooks, notes, and a steaming cup of coffee. But wait, what’s missing? Ah, yes! The perfect playlist to accompany you on this academic journey. Well, let me make this more interesting. Do you know the scientifically best music for studying?

Believe it or not, the right music can do wonders for your focus, motivation, and overall productivity. In this article, we’ll delve into the fascinating world of music and its impact on studying.

Prepare to discover the scientifically best music for studying, as well as some surprising ins



Up Next

10 Best Comedy Movies On Netflix That Will Have You In Fits Of Laughter

Ten Best Comedy Movies On Netflix That Will Make You Holler

Ah, Netflix, the magical realm where “just one more episode” becomes an all-night binge-fest! If you’re like me, trying to pick the best comedy movies on Netflix is like being a kid in a candy store with only a nickel – too many choices, too little time.

From laugh-out-loud slapsticks to witty satires, Netflix’s comedy arsenal is as vast as your uncle’s never-ending ‘dad jokes’. So, to save you from endlessly scrolling and falling into the “Netflix Abyss”, we’ve curated a list of the top 10 funniest movies on Netflix.

Buckle up, folks! We’re about to embark on a laughter rollercoaster that even your stoic pe