How Good Was Socrates at Cornhole?

How Good Was Socrates at Cornhole?

By: John Deveney, ABC, APR, Fellow PRSA, IABC Fellow

I’ve learned many things from my family.

My firstborn niece, Mary Rose, taught reading at a public elementary school in South Florida before becoming a three-time women’s world champion cornhole player. In guiding her students, she urged them to be thoughtful and intentional in how they spoke. Before you say something, she told them, ask yourself: Are you being helpful—or hurtful?

“We always want to be helpful,” she said. “Never hurtful.”

Of course, the honesty of the single-digit ages can be as funny as it is disarming. Rosie once shared a story I’ll never forget.

A young girl ran up to her desk, breathless with urgency.
“I need to tell you something about Alex, Mrs. Streker!”

Knowing what might follow, Rosie gently asked, “Is what you want to say about Alex helpful or hurtful?”

“Oh, it’s hurtful,” the girl confessed. “Alex pulled my hair and doesn’t like me anymore. He likes Tabitha now—so I really want it to hurt.”

I laughed when I heard that—but I was also struck by the wisdom in what Rosie was teaching. Even first- and second-graders were being guided to pause, reflect, and think critically about their words.

That, of course, is the essence of the Socratic method.

Socrates, the Athenian philosopher, was known for teaching through questions—challenging assumptions, exposing ignorance, and leading his students to insight. His “triple filter” remains one of the most enduring tools for responsible communication:

1. Is it true? — Have you verified it?
2. Is it kind? — Will it uplift rather than harm?
3. Is it useful? — Does it serve a meaningful purpose?

Only words that pass all three filters are truly worth sharing.

These aren’t just philosophical musings; they’re practical tools for life—and for leadership. Whether in a classroom, a workplace, or a client meeting, the discipline to pause before speaking can prevent misinformation, foster empathy, and build trust.

So, while Socrates may have founded Western philosophy, he’s not tossing beanbags for Team USA in Los Angeles at the 2028 Olympics.
For that, I’ll still take my niece, Rosie.