Explain how Plato’s theory of forms attempts to solve this problem, and evaluate Plato’s theory of forms.

Plato’s forms theory

Paper  Instructions

The goal in your first essay is to (1) explain the category problem, (2) explain how Plato’s theory of forms attempts to solve this problem, and (3) evaluate Plato’s theory of forms. Papers should be typed double- space, and should be roughly five pages in length.

Organization

A well-structured paper will contain four distinct parts, as follows:

I. Introduction: (i) Briefly introduce your topic (one or two sentences, maximum)

(ii) State your thesis (viz., whether Plato’s theory succeeds or fails)

(iii) State how the paper will proceed (one or two sentences, maximum; e.g., “First I
will…, then I will…”)

II. Exposition: Explain (1) the category problem (in both of its parts) and (2) the Platonic theory offorms.

The latter will require you to make clear what the forms are, what their properties are (in contrast to those of particulars), and how Plato’s positing them is meant to solve the category problem.

III. Evaluation: Defend your argumentby taking a stand on Plato’s theory; is he right or wrong?

This will require subjecting Plato’s position to criticism in the form of objections and/or counterexamples, and showing that Plato’s view either can or cannot be defended. In other words, argue your position regarding Plato.

IV. Conclusion:

(i) Briefly restate the main points of the paper’s body.
(ii) Restate the thesis (this time, as conclusion).

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