The Value Of Perplexity And The Knowledge Of Knowledge

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The value of perplexity and the knowledge of ignorance The knowledge can equip one when he or she pursues the truth. However, an illusion of owning the knowledge can do exactly the opposite. People tend to have their opinions, but it is important to realize that we may do not own the knowledge that we thought we had. The perplexity can be a sign for us that reminds us the existence of ignorance of ourselves, just as what Socrates said, “…he would be glad to find out, whereas before he thought he could easily make many fine speeches to large audiences about the square of double size…” (Meno, 84c). The first and foremost value of perplexity is that it helps people overcome the obstacle in the way of learning. There are some people don’t believe …show more content…

While Socrates knew he was not wise at all, the oracle told Chaerephon that no one, at that time, was wiser than Socrates (Aplogy, 21 a). After his investigation, Socrates achieved a conclusion that his knowledge of ignorance made him the wisest Athien man (23 b). The similar idea also appeared in ancient Asia; Confucius suggested that “Humility is the solid foundation of all virtues” (The Analects). Both of these two philosophies emphasized the value of the knowledge of ignorance. The perplexity experience is the process that we find ourselves ignorant and this realization of ignorance would trigger us to pursue the truth. The difference between Socrates and Confucius is that Socrates suggested that “human wisdom is worth little or nothing” (23 b) while Confusius valued the fruit of human being’s wisdom. He is quoted as saying "I have no inborn knowledge. I love antiquing and I search for it [knowledge] assiduously (The Analects)." Personally, I agreed with Confucius, since the value of perplexity is triggering us to learn, and I believe there is nothing shameful to be proud of what we have achieved. Even Socrates was proud of his knowledge of ignorance so that he could comfortably tell other people that they are ignorant. Therefore, he could face the death without fear, since he knew he was correct about people’s

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