Ancient Philosphical Influences

Question 1

To what extent does Plato’s view of the Forms explain the nature of reality?
UNSUCCESSFUL

Answer 1

1) Rationalism vs Empiricism
2) The nature of the Forms
3) The Forms lack use/Elitism

Question 2

Evaluate Plato’s view on the hierarchy of the Forms, including the Form of the Good.
UNSUCCESSFUL

Answer 2

1) Rationalism vs Empiricism
2) Nature of the Forms
3) Impracticality

Question 3

‘Plato’s analogy of the cave tells us nothing about reality.’ Discuss.
AGREE

Answer 3

1) Impractical
2) Dismisses empiricism
3) Unclear nature of the Forms

Question 4

To what extent does Aristotle’s theory of the Four Causes explain the nature of reality?
UNSUCCESSFUL

Answer 4

1) Empiricism/Scientific method
2) Telos
3) Contradictory nature of the Prime Mover

Question 5

Critically evaluate Aristotle’s views on the Prime Mover.
UNSUCCESSFUL

Answer 5

1) Have to accept Telos
2) Rationalism
3) Religiously unsatisfying

Question 6

‘Aristotle’s use of the senses to make sense of reality is more effective than Plato’s reliance on reason.’ Discuss.
ARISTOTLE IS BETTER

Answer 6

1) Senses should not be dismissed
2) Accessibility
3) Morality/goodness

Question 7

‘Plato’s Form of the Good is more convincing than Aristotle’s Prime Mover.’ Discuss.
ARISTOTLE IS BETTER

Answer 7

1) Rationalism
2) Accessibility
3) Relation to reality

Question 8

Exam specification (Plato)

Answer 8

• Understanding of reality
• The Forms
• Analogy of the Cave

Question 9

Exam specification (Aristotle)

Answer 9

• Understanding of reality
• Four Causes
• Prime mover