Plato’s Theory of Ideas: Core Concepts and Influences
Plato’s Theory of Ideas
The theory of the ideas of Plato is the backbone of his philosophy and a highly influential concept. According to this theory, there are intangible, ideal forms existing in an objective and absolute realm, separate from the physical world. Within a hierarchy of ideas, the idea of good illuminates all other ideas. Lower in the hierarchy are ideas of beauty, justice, and unity, followed by ideas of polar elements and mathematical entities, and finally, ideas of material beings and physical reality. All these ideas are illuminated by the supreme idea of good.
Characteristics of the Ideas
- Above the sensible world.
- Divine, one, eternal, and immutable.
- The true reality versus the mediocre reality of the sensible world.
- Models inspired by the demiurge to build the physical world.
- Reference points and the basis upon which we understand sensible reality.
Genesis of the Theory of Ideas
Plato’s theory was influenced by Socrates and Parmenides. Socrates focused on defining moral concepts, and Plato extended this to all concepts. Plato posited that these ideas are not only moral in character but can also represent other things, such as a tree. Parmenides influenced Plato by attributing characteristics such as immutability and absoluteness to the ideas. Parmenides’ conception of two types of knowledge—sensitive and intellectual—also played a role, with intellectual knowledge considered primary. This distinction led to the concept of two worlds. Plato attributed objective reality to ideas, asserting that they exist independently of our minds in a realm called the world of ideas.
Relationship of Ideas with the World of Sense
- Ideas are the models used by the demiurge in constructing the world.
- Ideas are immutable, contrasting with the mutable and changeable nature of the things in this world.
- Ideas are unique compared to sentient beings, which are always different.
- Ideas are principles of intelligibility for understanding objects. Without contemplating the ideas, we would not understand the world.
Human Knowledge
Plato distinguishes between sensitive and intellectual knowledge. Sensitive knowledge is based on sensory perception and is considered superficial and inconsistent, keeping individuals at an elementary level of understanding. Intellectual knowledge, however, is understood as a reminiscence. It allows one to overcome the barrier of the senses and contemplate the true reality of ideas. Plato suggests that before incarnation, the soul contemplated the true reality of ideas. Incarnation obscures this knowledge, but it can be recovered through intellectual exercise. Philosophers, as lovers of wisdom, strive to unearth this knowledge from the depths of their souls.
How Does One Attain Knowledge?
Plato describes this path through the myth of the cave, also known as the second voyage or Platonic dialectic. It involves two stages:
The Ascent
One must break free from the chains of the sensible world and everyday life, eliminating prejudices, mundane routines, and false beliefs. This purification of the soul is achieved through intellectual exercise, reviewing traditions and customs. Maintaining freedom from the beliefs of others is challenging, but the result is the discovery of truth, true knowledge of ideas, and ultimately, the idea of goodness.
The Return
Having attained truth, one does not remain in contemplation but undertakes a dual purpose of teaching and ethical-political engagement.