Benue State University, Makurdi

A Reading of Aristotle’s Objections to Plato’s Theory of Ideas

Joseph Nietlong, PhD and Gideon Kato

Abstract

The aim of this paper is to examine the objections that Aristotle raised against the central pillar of Plato’s philosophy: His theory of Ideas. Plato had posited two worlds: the world of Essential forms, in contrast to the world of appearances. Aristotle raised a number of portent objections to this theory. This critique of Plato by his most prominent student is the line of great divide in the history of not only ancient Greek thought, but also (has reverberated through) the whole of Western thought in its various epochs to date. This study examines anew the significance of these objections that Aristotle raised against a Master he so profoundly respects and idolizes. It would appear that both these original and unique visions of reality at the fountain-head of Western thought aptly complement each other. Together, both weaved a tapestry so rich, complex and at once versatile and comprehensive as to bear the weight of catching in its web all that is: the very self presenting of being in its manifold modes.

DOWNLOAD COMPLETE ARTICLE HERE (CLICK)