PLATO'S

School of Thoughts

Presented by: Dara Mae V. Narciso & Katlyn Sedigo

 Table of Content
• Metaphysics • Role and Character of the Teacher
• Epistemology • Role and Character of the Learners
• Axiology • Method of Teaching
• Proponents • Nature of Classroom
• Aims • Source of Knowing
• Nature of • Influences of the present educational
Curriculum system
METHAPHYSICS
Referring to an idea, doctrine, or posited reality outside of
human sense perception

• Plato's metaphysics, centered around his theory of Forms,

asserts that the physical world is a shadowy reflection of a
higher reality. The Forms represent the ultimate truth and
provide the foundation for understanding the nature of
existence and knowledge
• Plato believes that in order to explain reality one must appeal
to two radically different sorts of substances, in this case,
material (visible) and immaterial substance (invisible).
 EPISTEMOLOGY
The theory of knowledge, especially with regard to its methods, validity,
and scope. Epistemology is the investigation of what distinguishes
justified belief from opinion.

• Plato emphasized the importance of reason and

rational inquiry as the means to access knowledge. He
argued that true knowledge is not derived from
sensory experience but rather from the contemplation
of the Forms through the use of reason. He regarded
the human soul as having innate knowledge that can
be recollected through philosophical inquiry.
 EPISTEMOLOGY
The theory of knowledge, especially with regard to its methods, validity,
and scope. Epistemology is the investigation of what distinguishes
justified belief from opinion.

• ·Plato's epistemology highlights the importance of reason,

the distinction between knowledge and belief, and the
central role of the Forms in understanding reality. His
theory of recollection suggests that true knowledge is
innate and is a process of remembering what the soul
already knows. Plato's ideas continue to shape
discussions on epistemology and the nature of knowledge
in contemporary philosophy.
 ·Theory of Forms:
o
In basic terms, Plato's Theory of Forms asserts that the physical
world is not really the 'real' world; instead, ultimate reality exists
beyond our physical world. Plato discusses this theory in a few
different dialogues, including the most famous one, called 'The
Republic.
 Axiology
The branch of practical philosophy which studies the
nature of value.

• Plato's axiology emphasizes the pursuit of knowledge,

wisdom, and virtue as the path to attaining the Good.
• The Good is the foundation for moral and ethical values
and serves as a guide for individuals and societies to
achieve a harmonious and just existence.
• The proper alignment with the good leads to a virtuous
life and the realization of the highest human potential.
Educational
Implications
Plato's School of Thought, or Platonism,
has several educational implications that
stem from his philosophical ideas. Here
are some key educational implications of
Plato's philosophy:
 Educational
Implications
Importance of
Role of Reason and
Knowledge and
Philosophy:
Truth
He believed that true
knowledge is not acquired Plato considered
through sensory experience reason as the
alone but through a process highest faculty of
of recollection and the human mind.
understanding of the eternal
and unchanging Forms
 Educational
Implications

Moral and Differentiated

Ethical Education Education

Plato considered Plato recognized

education as a means to individual differences
shape and cultivate moral and advocated for a
character. differentiated
approach to
education.
 Educational
Implications

Importance of Role of Dialogue

Liberal Arts and Socratic Method

He believed that Plato's dialogues,

education should include particularly those
the study of mathematics, featuring Socrates,
sciences, literature, music, emphasize the
and physical education importance of
dialogue and inquiry-
based learning
 Overall, Plato's philosophy of education underscores
the pursuit of knowledge, cultivation of reason, moral
development, and a well-rounded education. It
highlights the transformative power of education to
shape individuals and society, fostering wisdom,
ethical behavior, and the realization of the ultimate
truth.
 Proponents
A person who advocates a theory, proposal,
or project.

Plato
Plato was an ancient Greek philosopher born in
Athens during the Classical period in Ancient
Greece. In Athens, Plato founded the
Academy, a philosophical school where he
taught the philosophical doctrines that would
later become known as Platonism
 Aims
The aims of Plato's School of Thought, also known as Platonism,
can be summarized as follows:
Pursuit of Knowledge and Promotion of Just
Wisdom Societies

Exploration of Cultivation of Rationality

Metaphysical Realities and Critical Thinking

Development of Virtuous Integration of Philosophy

Individuals and Education
 Nature of
Curriculum
Plato's School of Thought, often referred to as
Platonism, did not have a specific prescribed
curriculum. However, Plato's philosophy and
educational ideas provide insights into the nature of
curriculum that aligns with his philosophical views.
Here are some key aspects of the curriculum that can
be inferred from Plato's writings:
 Emphasis on Liberal
Arts
Plato believed in the importance of a well-rounded
education that encompasses various disciplines.

Study of
Philosophy
Philosophy held a central position in Plato's
curriculum. Plato saw philosophy as the pursuit
of wisdom and truth.
 Moral and Ethical
Education
Plato considered moral and ethical education as crucial for the
development of virtuous individuals and just societies

Physical
Education
Plato recognized the importance of physical well-being and
its connection to intellectual development.

Exposure to Arts and

Culture
Plato valued the arts and believed
they had an important role in
education.
ROLE AND CHARACTER
OF THE TEACHER
Facilitator of Knowledge
The teacher is responsible for transmitting knowledge to the students.
·Moral Guide
Plato believed that education should not only focus on intellectual
development but also on cultivating moral and ethical values.
·Philosopher-King
Plato envisioned the ideal teacher as a philosopher-king, someone who
possesses both wisdom and knowledge.
·Mentor and Guide
The teacher acts as a mentor, guiding students on their intellectual and
personal journey.
·Facilitator of Critical Thinking
Plato believed that education should focus on cultivating critical thinking
skills.
·Inspirational Figure
The teacher should inspire students to pursue knowledge and truth.
ROLE AND CHARACTER
OF THE LEARNERS
• Philosopher-Kings – Plato believed that the ideal rulers of a just society
should be philosopher-kings.
• Seeker of Truth – Learners in Plato’s Academy were encouraged to
pursue knowledge and truth.
• Active Participants – Learners in the Academy were not passive
recipients of knowledge.
• Intellectual Curiosity – Learners were expected to be intellectually
curious and eager to explore the fundamental questions about reality,
ethics, politics, and the nature of knowledge.
• Moral Virtue – Plato emphasized the importance of moral virtue and
character development in education.
• Critical Thinkers – Learners were taught to think critically and question
prevailing beliefs and opinions.
• Disciples of Socrates – Plato’s Academy was influenced by the
teachings and methods of Socrates, who encouraged self-examination
and the pursuit of knowledge through dialogue.
METHODS OF
TEACHING
• Dialogue and Discussion – The primary mode of
instruction was through dialogue and discussion.
• ·Socratic Questioning – The Socratic Method relied
heavily on asking probing questions to stimulate
critical thinking and self-reflection.
• ·Dialectic – The Socratic Method emphasized
dialectic, which involved a back-and-forth exchange
of ideas between the teacher and learners.
• ·Seeking Definitions and Universal Truths - Plato’s
teaching method focused on seeking universal truths
and understanding the essence of concepts.
• Development of Critical Thinking Skills
The Socratic Method aimed to develop learner’s
critical thinking skills.
• ·Emphasis on Self-Examination
The method of teaching in Plato’s Academy also
emphasized self-examination and self-awareness.
• ·Learning through Example
In addition to dialogue and questioning, Plato’s
teaching method often involved the use of
allegories, myths, and narratives to convey complex
ideas.
• Collaborative Learning Environment – The classroom in the
Academy fostered a sense of community and collaboration among
learners.
• Questioning and Dialogue – The classroom in the Academy was
centered around questioning and dialogue.
• Teacher as a Facilitator – The role of the teacher in the Academy
was that of a facilitator rather than a sole provider of knowledge.
• ·Emphasis on Intellectual Rigor – The classroom in the Academy
was characterized by intellectual rigor and disciplined inquiry.
• ·Socratic Method – The Socratic method, characterized by
questioning and dialogue, was a key aspect of the classroom in
the Academy.
• ·Ethical Development – The classroom in the Academy was not
solely focused on intellectual pursuits but also on moral and
ethical development.
 SOURCE OF KNOWING

The primary source of knowledge regarding

Plato’s school of thought, known as the Academy,
is Plato’s own writings.
 PROPONENTS

Plotinus Marsilio Ficino

Aristotle Plotinus was a prominent Marsilio Ficino, an Italian
Aristotle was deeply philosopher in the third century philosopher and scholar of
influenced by Plato’s AD and a key figure in Renaissance, played a crucial
teachings, particularly in Neoplatonism, a philosophical role in reviving interest in
the areas of metaphysics movement heavily influenced Plato’s philosophy during that
and ethics. by Plato’s ideas. period.

·Augustine of Hippo
Augustine, a theologian and
philosopher in the fourth and
fifth centuries AD,
incorporated Platonic ideas
into his Christian theology.
PROPONENTS
·Ralph Waldo Emerson Alfred North Whitehead
An American essayist and A British mathematician and
philosopher, developed a
philosopher of the 19th
philosophical system known
century, was strongly
as process philosophy or
influenced by Platonism.
process metaphysics.
INFLUENCES OF THE PRESENT
EDUCATIONAL SYSTEM
 Emphasis on Critical Thinking
Plato emphasized the importance of critical thinking and
questioning assumptions.
·Student-Centered Learning
Plato believed in the active participation of learners in the
educational process.
·Socratic Method and Dialogue
Plato’s Socratic method and use of dialogue have influenced
modern teaching practices.
·Holistic Education
Plato emphasized the importance of moral and ethical
development alongside intellectual growth.
 Conceptualizing Educational Goals
Plato’s emphasis on the pursuit of truth, wisdom, and the
development of moral character has influenced the broader
goals of education.
Curriculum Design
Plato’s belief in the existence of eternal truths and the
importance of foundational knowledge has influenced
curriculum design.
Philosophy of Education
Plato’s philosophy of education, centered around the
formation of virtuous individuals, has had a lasting impact.
 If a man neglects
education, he walks lame
to the end of his life
-Plato
Thank You!