Socrates Wisdom about Spreading Rumors Against People

LightBookLast Updated: April 16, 2026

2 minutes read

It is widely spread among different classes and cultures of people, the habit of gossip and transmission of news in order to discredit someone and inflict moral and social harm on them. And often this news is false rumors that want to harm the owner. We will convey to you this story about the philosopher Socrates, and certainly, from it, we take wisdom and learn a lot about how to control the tongue by speaking falsehood or destructive speech that causes harm to the people around us.

My brother, remember this wisdom of the philosopher Socrates whenever you try to spread any rumor, and know that you will be treated as you are treated, as the word leaves a great impact on the souls. Always speak constructive and positive words that benefit and help others…!

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It is said that this wisdom is from the great philosopher Socrates, and it is excellent wisdom.

In ancient Greece (399-469 BC), Socrates was famous for his great wisdom. One day, the great philosopher came across an acquaintance who ran to him and said to him eagerly: “Socrates, do you know what I heard about one of your students?”

Socrates Wisdom about Spreading Rumors Against People

Wait a moment for Socrates to reply

“Before you tell me, I’d like you to pass a little test called the Triple Filter Exam?”

Socrates continued: “Before you tell me about my student, let us take a moment to filter what you are going to say.

The first filter is honesty. Are you sure what you’re going to tell me is true?”

“No,” replied the man. “Actually, I’ve heard the news.

Socrates Wisdom about Spreading Rumors Against People

Well said Socrates, So you’re not sure whether what you’re going to tell me is right or wrong. Let’s try the second filter.

Good filter. Is what you are going to tell me about my student a good thing?”

“No, on the contrary… “Okay.”

Socrates continued, “So you’re going to tell me something bad about my student that you’re not sure is true?” The man started feeling embarrassed.

Socrates continued: “You can still pass the test, because there is a third filter interest filter. What do you tell me about his asylum, Cevedna?” “Actually, no”.

Socrates continued: “If you are going to tell me something that is neither true nor good nor useful or valuable, why do you tell me it at all?”

Source: Sayings and Judgment