'Open Socrates' explores self-improvement through philosophy

Open Socrates by Agnes Callard explores the pursuit of self-improvement through philosophy, offering a neo-Socratic approach to ethics and intellectual growth.

Agnes Callard argues that Socrates is often treated as a mere "sauce" to enhance critical thinking, rather than the main focus, whose ethics, if fully understood, are profoundly radical. Photo by Prisma/UIG/Getty Images

By Rochem Noor and Hayu Andini

Open Socrates: The Case for a Philosophical Life, by Agnes Callard

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For many, self-improvement resolutions often center on actions—drinking less, exercising more, or becoming a kinder person. Yet, Agnes Callard’s Open Socrates shifts the focus away from these external acts toward an internal, intellectual journey. According to Callard, self-improvement isn’t a battle of willpower or discipline; it’s a matter of rethinking our understanding of “the good.” Her argument, rooted in Socratic philosophy, asserts that we fail not because we are weak-willed but because we haven’t truly considered what constitutes a meaningful and virtuous life.

In Open Socrates, Callard, a professor of philosophy at the University of Chicago, presents a bold case for viewing self-betterment as an intellectual endeavor. She introduces a “neo-Socratic ethics” that encourages readers to rethink their assumptions, question their beliefs, and embrace the challenging process of living an examined life. The book balances academic rigor with accessible prose, aiming to inspire both seasoned philosophers and curious newcomers.

Callard’s primary assertion is that self-improvement begins in the mind. Rather than relying on willpower to overcome bad habits or achieve personal goals, she urges readers to reconsider their foundational beliefs. She writes, “The hard work of struggling to be a good, virtuous, ethical person is, first and foremost, intellectual work.” This perspective challenges the common notion that self-betterment is merely a matter of persistence or grit.

Drawing inspiration from Socrates, Callard emphasizes the importance of questioning. Socrates, who famously claimed to know nothing except his own ignorance, believed that true wisdom came from acknowledging how little one knows. By adopting this mindset, Callard argues, individuals can confront their blind spots, reconsider their values, and pursue a deeper understanding of life’s purpose.

At its core, Open Socrates champions a return to Socratic principles. Socrates, often regarded as the father of Western philosophy, approached ethics as a dynamic and interactive process. He described himself as both a “gadfly,” provoking others to question their assumptions, and a “midwife,” helping them give birth to new ideas. Callard adopts these metaphors to frame her own philosophical approach, which she terms “neo-Socratic ethics.”

This approach prioritizes dialogue and intellectual engagement over passive acceptance of societal norms or personal habits. Callard argues that many of our actions are dictated by what she calls “savage commands”—impulses driven by physical desires or social pressures. These commands, though powerful in the moment, often lead to contradictory behaviors and a lack of coherence in our lives.

Philosophy, in contrast, offers a pathway to greater clarity and consistency. By engaging in Socratic inquiry, individuals can examine their beliefs, identify contradictions, and develop a more coherent understanding of what it means to live a good life.

One of the central themes in Open Socrates is the idea that thinking is a communal activity. Callard argues that intellectual growth often requires the presence of others. In dialogue, we encounter perspectives that challenge our own, helping us see the world from new angles.

This emphasis on community is evident in Callard’s personal anecdotes. She recounts how, as a college student, she attempted to emulate Socrates by approaching strangers in an art museum with philosophical questions. Her enthusiasm, though well-intentioned, left her audience feeling trapped rather than inspired. This story underscores the difficulty of translating Socratic principles into everyday interactions, but it also highlights the transformative potential of dialogue when approached thoughtfully.

Callard’s own life provides another example of the communal nature of philosophical inquiry. Her decision to leave her first marriage and marry a graduate student sparked controversy, but she frames this choice as part of her intellectual journey. She describes love as an “ecstatically intellectual pursuit” that helps individuals confront their blind spots and grow in understanding.

A recurring theme in Open Socrates is the relationship between philosophy and time. Socrates famously described philosophy as preparation for death, a sentiment echoed by Callard. She argues that thinking deeply about life’s fundamental questions can help individuals move beyond the superficial concerns of daily life and confront the reality of their own mortality.

Callard uses the example of Tolstoy’s Confession to illustrate this point. In his 50s, Tolstoy experienced an existential crisis, questioning the meaning of love, family, and worldly success. This moment of doubt, Callard suggests, highlights the importance of engaging with life’s deeper questions before it’s too late.

Philosophy, according to Callard, is not about finding definitive answers but about embracing the uncertainty and complexity of human existence. She writes, “What appears to be a difficulty with life is, in fact, a difficulty in our thinking about life.” This perspective encourages readers to view challenges as opportunities for intellectual growth rather than insurmountable obstacles.

Open Socrates is both charming and provocative. Callard’s enthusiasm for her subject is palpable, and her writing is filled with engaging anecdotes and thought-provoking insights. However, her “hard-line intellectualist” approach may be intimidating to some readers. She acknowledges this, waiting until midway through the book to fully articulate her position.

The book’s tone is conversational yet rigorous, striking a balance between accessibility and academic depth. Callard’s passion for philosophy shines through, making even complex ideas feel approachable. However, some readers may find her arguments overly idealistic. For example, she places immense faith in the power of thought to resolve life’s dilemmas, a perspective that may not resonate with those facing practical or emotional challenges.

Despite the challenges of adopting a Socratic approach to life, Callard argues that it remains profoundly relevant. Socrates’ commitment to questioning, dialogue, and intellectual growth offers a powerful framework for navigating modern challenges. In a world filled with distractions and “savage commands,” his teachings provide a reminder of the importance of living an examined life.

Callard’s neo-Socratic ethics invites readers to embrace this legacy, challenging them to rethink their assumptions and engage more deeply with life’s questions. While the journey may be difficult, she argues, it is ultimately rewarding.

Open Socrates is not a conventional self-help book. It does not offer quick fixes or easy solutions. Instead, it challenges readers to embrace the intellectual work of self-improvement, inviting them to think more deeply about their beliefs, values, and assumptions.

Callard’s blend of philosophical rigor and personal reflection makes Open Socrates a compelling read for anyone interested in self-improvement, ethics, or the enduring relevance of Socratic thought. Her passion for philosophy is infectious, and her arguments provide a powerful reminder of the importance of living an examined life.

For those willing to engage with its ideas, Open Socrates offers a profound and inspiring exploration of what it means to pursue self-improvement through intellectual growth. It is a book that challenges, provokes, and ultimately empowers readers to rethink their approach to life and embrace the transformative power of philosophy.

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