Marianne Kiskola: Internal Climate Change – Socratic Filters

In Greece, when someone doesn't want to continue a malicious conversation about a third party, they say; "Πού να ξέρω εγω?". To emphasize their point, they raise both hands in front of them in a defensive gesture. The phrase can be translated literally as "How should I know?", but it actually means "It's not for me to say." It signals to the conversational partner that "It's pointless to continue hashing this out, we cannot know the facts for sure or the thoughts of others." Thus, the matter is considered fully addressed, and the toxic conversation is halted by a common code taught by Socrates long ago.

Our era is marked by "foolish talk." Could Socrates' teachings help us?

Socrates' "Three Filters Test" helps us process information before we pass it on. The filters are truth, goodness, and usefulness. Does our message pass these tests? If not, it is idle chatter, gossip, or even hate speech.

1st Filter: Truth. When you hear a story or claim, ask yourself: Is this true? Were you there personally? Did you get the information from a reliable source? In today's world, where rumors and misinformation spread rapidly, especially via social media, it is increasingly important to question what we hear and see. Does the story stop with you, or do you pass it on? Are you a gatekeeper of wisdom or a conduit for foolish talk?

Why do people insist on spreading rumors or offensive stories? Invariably, gossip is based on incomplete or distorted information, and its spreaders pollute the atmosphere for selfish motives: for entertainment, attention, or power dynamics. The unreliable whisperer wants to be "important" in their group and elevate themselves, while simultaneously degrading the subject of the gossip and the listener to their level.

Socrates' teaching is clear: without truth, speech has no value.

2nd Filter: Goodness. Is what you want to say good? Does it promote positive thinking and action?

Goodness doesn't mean seeing everything through rose-colored glasses, but if there's nothing good to say, is it worth saying anything at all? Before you speak, you can ask yourself: Why would I tell this? What good does it do anyone? Often, offensive stories stem from people's fears and insecurities. We might feel that demeaning others elevates us, but in reality, it undermines community spirit and makes us more selfish and isolated. Polarization has never led to anything good.

3rd Filter: Usefulness. Socrates asks us: "Is this information useful?" Even if some information might be true and good, it also matters how it affects us and others. Does this information have any concrete significance? Does it improve my life or the lives of others?

Hate speech and fear-based speech often spread because they provoke strong emotions—particularly fear and anger. However, such speech does not lead to constructive solutions. It closes doors to dialogue and cooperation. Instead of helping us confront our fears, it often deepens them. In such an atmosphere, there is no room for open and respectful discussion.

Hate speech often has its roots in people's internal fears and insecurities. When we encounter something new, different, or unknown, our fears can lead us to attack it. Fear creates the illusion that defending oneself through attack is justified. It is not.

Socrates understood that wisdom and courage come from openness and a willingness to learn—even from frightening and challenging things. His method of dialogue, elenchus, was based on an exchange of questions and answers that deepened understanding and revealed the truth. In the same way, we can counter hate speech and fear with dialogue, where we ask and listen without prejudice.

Socrates' model teaches us the values of wisdom, empathy, and community, which are essential for building sustainable relationships and well-being. With Socratic filters, we can create a culture where hate speech and offensive speech are replaced with constructive dialogue—and fears can turn into opportunities to learn and grow together.

So, to family discussions, workplaces, and family gatherings: Before you tell a story, ask yourself: did you hear the matter yourself, were you there, what do you gain from this?

And then tell a story that brings light to the world.