Theory of Forms
Rationalism
Criticisms
Key Terms
Strengths
100

What analogy did Plato use to explain the forms?

The Analogy of the Cave

100

What is rationalism?

The primary source of knowledge is reason.

100

What are the issues with the Demiurge?

The link between the Demiurge and physical world is not explained.

100

Define apriori.

Knowledge before experience.

100

"You can't ...... in the same river twice"

Step

200

What did the prisoners in the cave represent?

People in society.

200

What is the definition of anamnesis?

We are born with knowledge and have to recollect it.

200

Explain Aristotle's stronger version of the Demiurge.

The Prime Mover which is explained through observation.

200

What is meant by dialectical philosophy?

Teachings written down as a conversation.

200

What do optical illusions show?

That we cannot trust our senses.

300

What Philosopher inspired Plato's theory of forms?

Socrates.

300

Define reason.

Logical process of thought.

300

Why are the forms not useful?

They do not give us knowledge of the physical world.
300

........   ............  - words that mean 'blank slate'.

Tabula Rasa

300

What example did Plato used to prove apriori knowledge?

The Slave Boy and Geometry

400

What is the ultimate form and how is it presented?

The Form of The Good / The Sun.

400

Define Descartes example of the wax.

The properties of physical objects can all change, so therefore knowledge is not based on experience / physical things.
400

How would Dawkins argue against the Forms?

They do not exist / they are explained through memes.

400

What is the name of Plato's god?

The Demiurge

400

Name a strength of the Cave Allegory.

It still applies to society today.

500

What is our relationship to the forms?

Our souls which are non-physical.

500

Why can't the truth be found in the physical world?

It is always changing. Only something non-physical could remain unchanging.

500

What is the third man argument?

The concept of forms would lead to infinite regress.

500

What is the term used to explain recollection of the forms?

Anamnesis

500

What do survival instincts show?

That apriori knowledge exists at birth.