“The first thing you have to know is yourself. A man who knows himself can step outside himself and watch his own reactions like an observer.” — Adam Smith

“I know that I am intelligent, because I know that I know nothing.” — Socrates

The ancient Greek philosopher Socrates said that knowledge was the one true good. That with proper knowledge one can only make the right decision. The reason why we make bad decisions is simply because we lack knowledge or complete knowledge. But once we have sufficient knowledge, we cannot help but be good and virtuous people. Socrates, and other philosophers after him, sought this intellectual ability that enabled them to make the best decisions in whatever circumstances they found themselves in. This ability they called “virtue” or knowledge of right and wrong.  A virtuous person always knows the right thing to do in a given situation and with the information available to them.

Self-knowledge is knowledge about who you are, what is important to you, what you need to be happy and healthy. Self-knowledge allows us to make wise decisions about all aspects of our lives. How best should I spend my time? What kinds of friendships should I have? When should I feel anger, fear, love, or sadness? How much should I feel? What work should I be doing? What is the best way for me to deal with my problems?

Philosophical therapy is aimed at growing an awareness of and appreciation for self-knowledge. Therefore, expanding one’s self-knowledge allows one to solve whatever problems are holding one back. Without self-knowledge it can be very difficult to make a decision or to avoid making a bad decision. With self-knowledge it becomes easier to be decisive and to avoid making decisions that lead to self-harm. Through philosophical therapy, you will learn that your own life is a complex and fascinating tale and that you have more to offer the world than you may have previously realised.