Abstract

In the central section of the _Protagoras_, the discussion between Socrates and Protagoras has broken down in a seemingly irresolvable dispute about methodology - Protagoras wants to make long speeches, while Socrates wants to proceed by means of the short questions and answers characteristic of the elenchus. The onlookers offer solutions in an attempt to restart the discussion. This section appears to be a mere dramatic interlude, but I argue that in fact it constitutes a parable establishing links between philosophy, education, and politics in which authority and control are contrasted with genuine democratic discussion.