Which persuasion, about what?
SocratesWell then, since it is not alone in accomplishing this work, but others do it too, we would justly go on to put a further question to the one who says so, as with the painter: “Of what kind of persuasion, then, and of persuasion about what, is rhetoric the art?” Or don’t you think that asking further is just?
GorgiasI think so.
SocratesThen answer, Gorgias, since you think so too.
GorgiasOf this persuasion, then, I mean, Socrates: the one in the lawcourts and in the other crowds, as I was also saying a moment ago, and about those things that are just and unjust.
SocratesI too suspected, Gorgias, that this was the persuasion you meant, and that it was about these things. But so that you won’t be surprised if a little later I ask you something of this sort, which seems to be clear but about which I ask further—for, as I say, I ask so that the argument may be carried through step by step, not for your sake, but so that we don’t get into the habit of guessing at each other’s words and snatching them before they are said, and you instead carry through your own points, on your premise, however you want.
GorgiasAnd I think you are right to do so, Socrates.