The Art of Listening According to Plutarch

Extensive writings on ethics, education, and human behaviour were written by the well-known Greek philosopher Plutarch. Among his most impactful works is The Art of Listening, in which he stresses the need of being a careful and disciplined listener. In a world frequently ruled by speaking, Plutarch reminds us that listening is an active, moral, and intellectual exercise vital for personal development rather than merely passive hearing.

At the start of his essay, Plutarch states plainly that becoming into adulthood does not imply liberation from instruction. Rather, it entails moving from outside guidance to internal reason, which starts to be our new compass. Only those who pay attention to reason are genuinely free since they develop their capacity to select what is good and right; those driven by uncontrallable passions experience regret and confusion.

Plutarch next turns to the need of philosophical education. Philosophy is like a garment that suits the mature mind, he says, and he cautions against damaging influences on the soul. Moreover, he writes that kids' ears must be protected from corrupt speech, citing philosophers who proposed that this is not meant to promote ignorance but rather to shield the young from destructive ideas until they are mature enough to grasp and pick the correct ones.

He maintains that listening can help to form character—either positively or negatively. Therefore, one has to master sensible word reception before one can speak effectively. Plutarch asserts that wise people remain silent while they listen. Arrogance and bad discipline are indicated by interrupts and quick objections. A patient listener becomes known for fairness and thoughtfulness in addition to more knowledge.

He harshly attacks envy and the resentment in conversations. Envious people hate excellent ideas just as others love them. They compare themselves to speakers and get diverted by the reactions of the audience. This stops actual learning. a listener should sidestep this pitfall and tackle presentations with an open and peaceful mind.

Plutarch sees listening as attending a holy ceremony. We ought to listen respectfully, value the work behind the speech, and grow from both its merits and drawbacks. We may find what to steer clear of even when a speaker fails. Most importantly, we have to look at ourselves and wonder if we too commit comparable mistakes.

He cautions against blindly embracing words that sound good. Style and slick presentation should not conceal false or dangerous ideas. We should seek beyond appearance and strive for what is helpful and true in every speech, much as bees hunt for honey among flowers.

A good listener strives for moral development rather than amusement. Philosophy's aim is not enjoyment but change. Harsh words that confront our faults are more priceless than complimentary speeches. Therefore, young people should thus prioritise content above performance.

Furthermore, staying on topic during arguments and not disrupting the flow with superfluous or clever-sounding queries is advised by Plutarch. He points out that real development results from humility and a will to beat our flaws, not from bragging.

He proposes also that, when required, questions should fit the speakers competence as well as the subject being addressed. In fact, too many inquiries or ongoing interruptions demonstrate vanity rather than inquiry. But if what one hears emotionally hurts them, they should have private consultations with professionals subsequently.

Praise, too, should be measured. While overpraise or total coldness betrays a lack of balance, the right quantity of appreciation shows maturity and sincerity. Real listeners use kindness to motivate others, not flattery.

Nonverbal behaviour matters as well, Plutarch notes. Good listeners keep their faces calm, eye contact, and good posture. Signs of boredom or arrogance show disrespect and destroy the ambience.

Good interaction calls for harmony between speaker and listener, just like in a ballgame. Both have to act with respect and timing.

Besides, philosophy, Plutarch claims, is a ceremonial starting ritual. It might start with pain but quickly brings light and joy. One should listen quietly, then consider and debate cordially when corrected or criticised. Criticism is purification, not punishment.

First learning anything new—music, language, philosophy—seems puzzling. But as patience and effort help to build familiarity, what once looked to be tough becomes clear and even pleasing. So, those who give up too early or claim to understand without effort rather than the subject are to blame.

Ultimately, Plutarch begs us to reject arrogance and stupidity. Mockery or the arrogance of others ought not discourage us. Those who value morality must be brave, humble, and driven. Real listening produces knowledge as well as a higher quality of life.

Plutarch's timeless wisdom shows us that listening is a way of life rather than just a talent. By means of close focus, humility, and wisdom we may become wiser, more morally upright, and more humane.