The Theory of Forms by Plato: Definition & Examples
Definition of The Theory of Forms
The ancient Greek philosopher Plato (420s-340s BCE) did a lot to change the way we think about the world, in everything from mathematics to ethics to logic. But perhaps one of his most influential contributions to philosophy was the Theory of Forms. In basic terms, Plato’s Theory of Forms asserts that the physical world is not really the ‘real’ world; instead, ultimate reality exists beyond our physical world. Plato discusses this theory in a few different dialogues, including the most famous one, called ‘The Republic.’ It is also likely that Plato inherited some of this theory from his mentor, Socrates.
Plato’s philosophy asserts that there are two realms: the physical realm and the spiritual realm. The physical realm is the material stuff we see and interact with on a daily basis; this physical realm is changing and imperfect, as we know all too well. The spiritual realm, however, exists beyond the physical realm. Plato calls this spiritual realm the Realm of Forms (also called the Realm of Ideas or Realm of Ideals). Plato’s Theory of Forms asserts that the physical realm is only a shadow, or image, of the true reality of the Realm of Forms.
So what are these Forms, according to Plato? The Forms are abstract, perfect, unchanging concepts or ideals that transcend time and space; they exist in the Realm of Forms. Even though the Forms are abstract, that doesn’t mean they are not real. In fact, the Forms are more ‘real’ than any individual physical objects. So, concepts like Redness, Roundness, Beauty, Justice, or Goodness are Forms (and thus they are commonly capitalized). Individual objects like a red book, a round ball, a beautiful girl, a just action, or a good person reside in the physical realm and are simply different examples of the Forms.
The Realm of Forms vs. The Physical Realm: Examples
Let’s consider a specific example. Think of a square. Now draw a picture of a square on a piece of paper. I will also draw a picture of a square on a piece of paper. Our pictures are likely a bit imperfect; maybe our lines aren’t exactly straight, or our angles aren’t exactly 90 degrees. In addition, your picture and my picture are likely a little different – different sizes, different colors, etc. To put it in Plato’s terms, our pictures of squares reside in the physical realm.
Despite their imperfections and differences, though, there’s something about our pictures that unites them. So what exactly is it that makes both of our pictures squares? The ‘it’ that makes our pictures squares is the Form of Square. You and I share a similar concept or ideal of what ‘square’ is, even though our pictures of squares turned out slightly different. To put it in Plato’s terms, the concept and ideal of Square resides in the Realm of Forms and is, therefore, perfect, abstract, and unchanging. Plato would say that this Form of Square is more real than our physical drawings of a square.
Activities for Plato’s Theory of Forms
Writing Prompts:
1. Plato’s teacher and mentor Socrates had the idea that bad conduct was simply a result of lack of knowledge. Plato extended this idea in the Republic. Write an essay defending or refuting this concept. Include in your essay how this idea is connected to the theory of forms and Plato’s assertion that one cannot be truly virtuous or just until one “sees” the truth of eternal forms.
2. Socrates and Plato lived long before the advent of Christianity, yet their ideas formed a basis for later Christian philosophers like Thomas Aquinas. Write an essay explaining how dualism in general and the theory of forms in particular relate to Christian beliefs about death, the soul, and virtue.
3. The ideas of Plato have such significance that many contemporary scholars still credit Plato as the father of Western philosophy. Write an essay discussing why the theory of forms is still relevant today. Hint: consider current political and cultural views in your response.
Creative Project:
The Allegory of the Cave is fundamental to Plato’s explanation of how forms operate in human perception and behavior. Make a drawing of the cave as Plato describes it in the Republic. Do your best to illustrate the components of the allegory so that someone needing clarification about the theory of forms could use your drawing for help. Label the various components.
Note to Instructors:
The idea of right conduct (good behavior) arising out of true knowledge can be difficult for students to reconcile with what they see in contemporary society. It might help to remind them to keep their response simple and personal to their own experience. For the second prompt, students will be helped by having a basic explanation of the Christian Church in Western civilization. Of course, this is a broad topic, so you may want to limit the comparison to either the Middle Ages or contemporary Christianity. Responses to prompt #3 might include ideas and observations about current political events and attitudes or the current system of higher education.
Looking for a Similar Assignment? Order now and Get 10% Discount! Use Coupon Code "Newclient"
