Plato and Aristotle's Philosophies

Study Notes

Plato and Aristotle

Plato believed in the Theory of Forms, which states that abstract, eternal forms are the true reality and the material world is a reflection.
Aristotle believed forms and matter are inseparable and reality is found in physical things themselves.
Plato was a rationalist, believing knowledge comes from reason and contemplation of the Forms.
Aristotle was an empiricist, believing knowledge comes from sensory experience and observation of the natural world.
Plato believed sensory experience is deceptive.
Plato's ethics are based on idealism, where the good life is achieved through contemplation of the Forms.
Aristotle's ethics are based on virtue ethics, where eudaimonia (flourishing) is the goal of life.
Plato's ideal society is ruled by philosopher-kings who understand the Form of the Good. This society is hierarchical and elitist.
Aristotle's ideal society is a mixed government with a strong middle class, which promotes the common good and political stability.
Plato's cosmology is a dualistic view, where the material world is a shadow of the true reality of the Forms.
Aristotle's cosmology is naturalistic and believes the physical world is real and worth studying.
Plato believed the soul is immortal and pre-exists the body. It is divided into reason, spirit, and appetite. The soul seeks to return to the realm of Forms.
Aristotle believed the soul is the form of the body and cannot exist independently. It is the principle of life, responsible for various capacities.
Plato believed art is a copy of the material world, which is already a copy of the Forms, thus leading away from truth.
Aristotle believed art has value in purging emotions and providing insights into human nature.
Plato believed the realm of Forms is unchanging and true knowledge is about what is eternal.
Aristotle believed change and motion are central to understanding the natural world. Everything moves toward its purpose or goal.
Plato's vision of government is utopian, with philosopher-kings ruling and society structured around wisdom and knowledge of the Good.
Aristotle's ideal government is a mixture of monarchy, aristocracy and democracy, designed to ensure balance and stability.

Tragedy and the Tragic Hero

Tragedy, according to Aristotle, is an imitation of serious, complete, and significant action, focusing on universal themes such as fate, morality, and human nature.
The events of a tragedy are of great importance and deal with serious moral or existential questions.
Tragedy, as defined by Aristotle, has a clear beginning, middle, and end, leading to a resolution.
Tragedy uses elevated language, often including poetic devices, appropriate to its themes.
Tragedy is presented through action, rather than narrating it.
Tragedy evokes feelings of pity and fear, which Aristotle believed can provide a cathartic experience for the audience.