A specific type of inquiry intended to delve deeper into a subject, thought process, or response. These questions aim to clarify ambiguities, uncover underlying assumptions, and elicit more detailed information than initially offered. For instance, instead of simply accepting a statement at face value, an individual might ask, “What led you to that conclusion?” or “Can you provide an example to illustrate that point?” to gain a fuller understanding.
The effective use of this questioning technique is crucial in various fields, including journalism, research, therapy, and negotiation. Its value lies in its ability to facilitate a more comprehensive investigation, reveal hidden motivations, and promote critical thinking. Historically, the Socratic method employed similar principles to challenge assumptions and encourage deeper reflection on complex issues.
