Socrates: 3 rules of sharing information

Have you been told a rumor? Do what Socrates would do: the three filter test. In ancient Greece, Socrates, recognized for his immense wisdom, received a person who, with great enthusiasm, said to him: "Socrates! You know what I just heard about your friend?"

The philosopher, calmly, replied: "Just a moment. Before you tell me, let's go through what you mean by three filters."

First filter: the truth.

• Have you checked that what you're going to tell me is true?
• No, I just heard it over there.

Second filter: Kindness.

• Is it something good you're going to tell me about my friend?
• No, quite the opposite.

Third filter: Usefulness.

• Is it useful that I know this?
• No, not really.

Socrates, with serenity, concluded:

• If what you want to tell me is not true, not good, not useful... why say it ? ... Socrates’ lesson is clear: before you speak, think. Let's improve how we communicate and build a wiser and empathetic environment. 

 

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