Socrates was not just a “gadfly”, but also a “midwife”:

In Open Socrates, Agnes Callard builds on the well-known characterization of Socrates as a “gadfly,” but she adds a more profound dimension to his role by likening him to a “midwife.” The “gadfly” image originates from Socrates’ habit of irritating the Athenian citizens by questioning their assumptions, challenging their complacency, and provoking discomfort. However, Callard suggests that this image does not fully capture the depth of Socrates’ method or his impact. Rather than just seeking to agitate or provoke for the sake of disruption, Socrates’ goal was to facilitate a process of intellectual and personal growth.

In this reimagined view, Socrates as a “midwife” is a guiding figure, helping others bring forth their own insights. Just as a midwife assists in the birth of a child, Socrates supports individuals in “birthing” their ideas, beliefs, and understanding of the world. The midwifery metaphor highlights Socrates’ role in nurturing the intellectual development of others without imposing his own opinions or conclusions. He did not simply provide answers; he asked questions that led others to examine their own thoughts, identify inconsistencies, and come to their own conclusions.

Callard’s interpretation of Socrates as a “midwife” suggests that philosophy is not about imposing dogma or predetermined answers, but about guiding individuals through a process of questioning and self-examination. This approach requires patience, empathy, and skill, much like the work of a midwife. It invites individuals to engage deeply with their own minds, to confront their uncertainties, and to become more reflective and self-aware.

In contrast to the “gadfly” who might be seen as merely a disruptor, the “midwife” Socrates represents a more compassionate and nurturing aspect of his philosophy, one that prioritizes the development of wisdom and understanding through a collaborative process between the teacher (or guide) and the learner. Through this lens, Socrates’ true legacy is not only in his challenging of others but in his ability to foster independent thought and intellectual maturation in those he encountered.

This approach emphasizes self-discovery rather than external instruction. Socrates’ method, often referred to as the “Socratic method,” involves questioning, dialogue, and critical reflection, allowing individuals to challenge their preconceived notions and discover deeper truths for themselves. In doing so, Socrates acted as a facilitator of intellectual autonomy, helping people arrive at clarity and understanding through their own reasoning.