In today’s society where information and news can be shared instantly, on numerous platforms at the drop of a hat, it’s well worth taking into consideration The Triple Filter Test. As you may not be aware of what this test is, allow me to share this story with you.
In ancient Greece, Socrates was reputed to hold knowledge in high esteem. One day an acquaintance met the great philosopher and said, "Socrates, do you know what I just heard about your friend?" "Hold on a minute," Socrates replied. "Before telling me anything I'd like you to pass a little test. It's called the Triple Filter Test." "Triple filter?"
friend, it might be a good idea to take a moment and filter what you're
going to say. The first filter is Truth. Have you made absolutely sure
that what you are about to tell me is true?" "No," the man said, "actually I just heard about it and..." "All right," said Socrates. "So, you don't really know if it's true or not.
Now let's try the second filter, the filter of Goodness. Is what you are about to tell me about my friend something good?" "No, on the contrary..." "So," Socrates continued, "you want to tell me something bad about him, but you're not certain it's true. You may still pass the test though because there's one filter left: the filter of Usefulness.
"No, not really." "Well," concluded Socrates, "if what you want to tell me is neither true nor good nor even useful, why tell it to me at all?" This is why Socrates was a great philosopher and held in such high esteem. It also explains why he never found out his best friend was sleeping with his wife.
CONSIDER THIS:
Before you answer a question or voice your opinion, ask yourself:
Before you answer a question or voice your opinion, ask yourself:
Is it true?
Is it good?
Is it kind?
Is it useful?
Is it necessary?
If it passes these filters, speak up. If not, either find a tactful way to make it pass or better still, keep it to yourself.
Post a Comment