Lecture 'The Art of Asking Questions'. Day Two: The Practice of Asking Questions

Have you noticed that a clear formulation of a question often leads to useful answers? Even complex problems can find an original and effective solution. Long ago, philosophers created a method to help formulate questions in a way that makes difficult problems clearer—and solutions seem to appear by themselves. This method is called a Socratic dialogue, and you can master it at a master class led by philosopher and public speaking coach Andrey Makarov.

In the session, you’ll learn how to create an atmosphere of openness in conversation and formulate questions that reveal the essence of a problem and help with solving tasks. We’ll do exercises to develop critical thinking and learn to conduct a productive and inspiring dialogue. You will get hands-on experience with the Socratic dialogue and find out how to apply it to achieve your goals. Skills in asking philosophical questions are useful in consulting, teaching, project work, and in everyday communication with colleagues and family.

Questions serve as tools both for negotiations and for making sure you’re understood correctly—and for implementing your intentions. But often people answer not the questions that they are asked. So how should you phrase questions to get the answers you need? If you want to broaden your thinking, understand your interlocutor more deeply, and find new solutions, come. Together we’ll figure out how, with the right questions, you can change the world around you and within yourself.

Andrey Makarov is a Doctor of Philosophy, professor, a specialist in rhetoric, and a popularizer of philosophy. His lectures and master classes help improve communication and develop critical thinking without using complicated terms and formulas. He is a regular speaker at “Direct Speech.”