The Socratic Method ( or Method of Elenchus or Socratic Debate ) , is named after the Greek philosopher Socrates . The Socratic method ( also known as method of elenchus , Socratic irony , or Socratic debate ) , named after the classical Greek philosopher Socrates , is a form of inquiry and debate between individuals with opposing viewpoints based on asking and answering questions to stimulate critical thinking and to illuminate ideas .