Spirituality In Practice

Jnana Yoga and Socratic Method

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Socratic MethodJnana Yoga
Developed by the Greek philosopher, Socrates, the Socratic Method is a dialogue between teacher and students, instigated by the continual probing questions of the teacher, in a concerted effort to explore the underlying beliefs that shape the students views and opinions.
https://www.philoschools.com/socratic-philosophy/socrates/socratic-method 		YOGA stands for “ union” with the “self”. It  is the core of Vedic Philosophy. As one of the branches of Yoga, Jnana Yoga, seeks to explore the true knowledge on a given subject matter and the right from the wrong, as a prerequisite for engaging in any action. Together with disciplined action (Karma Yoga) and relentless faith (Bhakthi Yoga), Jnana Yoga is taught and used primarily as a method towards enlightened living with peace and harmony within and with all that surrounds us .    However, Jnana Yoga offers potential for use as a complement to the Socratic process in exploring any problem, formulating and resolving it! —- Spirituality in Practice: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BV49NPNQ 
The five Socratic questions are:What do you mean by that?How do you know?Can you give me an example?What are the consequences of that?What is the counterargument?
https://blog.hptbydts.com/smarter-thinking-the-socratic-method#:~:text=Boghossian%20(2012)%20identifies%20five%20steps,hypothesis%2C%20and%205)		The basic approach of Jnana Yoga are:What is the prevailing Knowledge, Bias and Ignorance?While all three co-exist all the time, which one of them is dominant leading to the prevailing Tranquility, Turbulence or inertial state of affairs? One can also – inversely –  infer the K, B and I based on observed Tranquility, Turbulence and/or Inertia. Characteristics and features of Tranquility, Turbulence and Inertia and the K, B and I leading to each are articulated in Bagawath Geetha Chapter 14.
How do we acknowledge and balance the role of Knowledge Vs. Bias and Ignorance, using “Self-control” as the fulcrum?“Self-control” is measured through:
Objectivity:
Looking at the problem and evidence as “external” to the self, individual or team. With equal weightage for all data acquired through K, B and I.
Non-attachment: Like a judge, or referee with equal disposition for all evidence or observations. Like a “Professional”    without fear/favor for the outcome!Relentlessly probing the invisible forces of nature (i.e.) the enabler!Jnana Yoga can be self-driven or participatory across individuals or a team.
Five steps of Socratic Process are:
1. Wonder, 
2. Hypothesis, 
3. Elenchus (refutation and cross-examination), 
4. Acceptance/rejection of the hypothesis, and 
5. Action.		The steps of Jnana Yoga are:
1. Reflective mind, with a relentless commitment to probe and find the answers.
2. Willingness to seek out all sources of knowledge – from the teacher, associates, books or literature, self-analysis
3. Unrelenting faith in the belief that everything is “enabled”. The “enablers” are the forces of nature – invisible, eternal and omnipresent, visible only through their effects – “Scientific fundamentals”!
4. Compile and manage the data or information using the
Knowledge, Bias and Ignorance matrix for the five omponents of any activity / subject matter evaluated:
A. What (Subject matter) ?
B. Who (agent(s)) ?
C. Means or Tools ?
D. Circumstances or constraints ?
E. Prevailing forces of nature ?
5. Unattached active engagement: Analysis and Action as required in the moment;
Active engagement without attachment;
Data driven; Opinions held in check; Without fear of the past or favor towards desired outcome (future).
The Socratic Method is widely used today in many fields, including philosophy, education, law, and ethics. It is particularly effective in promoting active learning and critical thinking skills, and can help individuals to develop a deeper understanding of complex issues.Jnana Yoga is largely seen as a tool for “Spiritual” way of living. A tool or method for “Self-realization”.
It is proposed that Jnana Yoga be taught and practiced as problem identification analysis and resolution tool, as a complement to the “Socratic Method”.
The Socratic method has its limitations, including the potential for it to be used as a tool for manipulation or to reinforce existing biases.
It requires a skilled practitioner who is able to ask the right questions and guide the conversation effectively.
It is highly dependent on the Objectivity of the questioner and limited to the subjectivity of the answerer. These are also the limitations for any scientific approach for studies.		Jnana Yoga could be a tool to constantly explore the existing bias and ignorance and seek out ways to enhance the knowledge required.
In this way, Jnana Yoga could be an excellent complement for the Socratic Method.
Jnana Yoga requires a commitment for “Self-control” evidenced through Objectivity, Non-attachment and commitment to explore the prevailing laws of nature.Above are also the fundamentals of any “Scientific” enquiry, taught through secular education!
Jnana Yoga can be practiced by one’s own accord through self reflection or as an assessment and management tool for a team, project, group or community.

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One response to “Jnana Yoga and Socratic Method”

  1. How can one remain Objective and Unattached/(Neutral)? – Spirituality In Practice Avatar
    How can one remain Objective and Unattached/(Neutral)? – Spirituality In Practice

    […] Socratic process, is the basis for the Western Judicial system. We have noted earlier that this process may need a more precise framework to foster objectivity and neutral stance, essential for anyone in resolving any issue: https://sipractce.com/2024/03/28/jnana-yoga-and-socratic-metho/ […]

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