Distinctions and Comparisons between Aristotle and Plato

The ideas introduced by Plato on the theory of forms, where deducted and critiqued by Aristotle. Both philosophers can be viewed as having opposing ideologies. Nonetheless, Plato and Aristotle are in agreement on certain factors of their philosophy.

Many have scrutinized and compared the dissimilarities and similarities of Aristotle's doctrine of categories and Plato's theory of forms. The observations found are of an interesting nature.

The beauty behind the writings of Plato is to not accept what is interpreted through the senses. In Plato's theory of forms, Plato explained the immaterial world as the realm containing the perfect form of objects and ideas that are presented on Earth. For instance, the idea of justice is inadequate on Earth, but in an alternate universe the idea of justice is in its perfect form.

When comparing living things, Plato would describe the object he viewed in the physical world as an idea or an imperfect form of the object he studied. If Plato were to observe a tree in the physical realm he would add “ness” to an object to make it known that the tree he saw before him was participating in the form of a tree, and is merely an outline of an ideal tree.

Aristotle disagreed with Plato’s ideology of an immaterial world and an invisible world not seen by the human eye. The system of Aristotle’s logical explanations against Plato’s theory of forms, were made through observations of the physical world. Aristotle unlike Plato trusted the senses as a tool to judge reality. He found Plato’s theory of forms defective, for he thought true reality contained concrete objects that one perceived through the senses. To oppose Plato’s theory, Aristotle created his doctrine of categories.

The doctrine of categ...

... middle of paper ...

... closed minded for not observing the immaterial world. Aristotle perceived with his senses as Plato did not. It is the norm for humankind today to value the senses and to not distrust them. I have always been skeptical of my senses and for my distrust in sensory experiences, I find Plato a superior critic on reality.

The ideas formulated by Aristotle, and Plato on reality can be found throughout western culture. The most eminent thought on reality in today’s thriving western society were the ideas presented by Aristotle. Numerous scientist in the present day, believe that death is the end of the soul which is connected to the body (an Aristotelian perspective). Plato’s view on reality is still discussed today, but Aristotle has stamped his ideas in the western mind more skillfully than Plato. Nevertheless, Plato is a celebrated figure in the philosophical world.