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SOCRATIC MAIEUTICS AT THE BIRTH OF EXCELLENCE
Abstract
The article shows the origins of coaching (one of the most effective ways of leadership development) in the Socratic dialogue as it appears in Plato's works. This origin appears in the most advanced way in cognitive coaching based on cognitive therapy. However, it is not only the roots of a young practical science that goes so far into antique philosophy. If we look at the elements of the Socratic method, it turns out that coaching belongs to it not only in the form but - or perhaps more - in its purpose. Formally the question technique of coaching is related to the Socratic method: the coach also raises questions to the client, the process of thinking together goes through the analysis of the assumptions and consequences, and - especially in the cognitive coaching - clarifying concepts while avoiding over-generalization, biases, and false conclusions. However, this is only a form. The really deep connection is that coaching is, just like a Socratic dialogue, a developing conversation. The coach gives you the space to find your way. Depending on the value system and the authentic presence (signature presence) of the coach, the original intent of Socrates may also appear: to encourage his fellow citizens to engage in the growth of their souls. The key term here is "arete" - the ancient Greek word that means both virtue and excellence at the same time. The true purpose of a Socratic dialogue is not only to achieve truth but to achieve both truth and virtue at the same time. The aim of cognitive coaching is also to help the client to get closer to what is both true and good at the same time.
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Plato*, Theaetetus, Plato in Twelve Volumes, Vol. 12 translated by Harold N. Fowler. Cambridge, MA, Harvard University Press; London, William Heinemann Ltd. 1921. Retrieved at 07.07.2019 from: http://www.perseus.tufts.edu/hopper/text?doc=Perseus%3Atext%3A1999.01.0172%3Atext%3DTheaet. *For the references of Plato's works I use the Stephanus numbers that are much more accepted among historians of philosophy than page numbers. They are also the points of reference on the website of Perseus Project I usually refer to.
ICF sets international standards for the coaching profession. The full definition runs as follows: "ICF defines coaching as partnering with clients in a thought-provoking and creative process that inspires them to maximize their personal and professional potential, which is particularly important in today’s uncertain and complex environment. Coaches honor the client as the expert in his or her life and work and believe every client is creative, resourceful and whole. Standing on this foundation, the coach’s responsibility is to: • Discover, clarify, and align with what the client wants to achieve • Encourage client self-discovery • Elicit client-generated solutions and strategies • Hold the client responsible and accountable This process helps clients dramatically improve their outlook on work and life while improving their leadership skills and unlocking their potential."(What is Professional Coaching? Retrieved at 07.07.2019 from https://coachfederation.org/faqs)
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