ABSTRACT
This chapter explores how Plato’s norms of inquiry take into account various contextual factors. The authors argue that Plato endorses the principle that one ought to proceed with greater caution when investigating initially plausible claims made by seemingly trustworthy inquirers than when engaging with dubious ideas or sophistical interlocutors. This principle is revealed in Socrates’ differing attitudes towards inquiry in the Euthydemus and the Protagoras. In the Euthydemus, Socrates is eager to discuss the nature of virtue with Euthydemus and Dionysodorus, while in the Protagoras he is more cautious with Protagoras. Further, even preposterous conversations can help one become more skilled in logic and even more generally virtuous.
