On Logic and Argument: Socrates, Plato and Aristotle - Essay Example

Socrates was the consummate lover of the soul. He abhorred the senses, discounting them as biological demands standing in the way of the attainment of true knowledge. His concern was focused on enlightenment rather than inquiry since the senses could not be trusted to yield anything unbiased. Plato took these concepts and added the components of mathematics and astronomy as the keys to true knowledge. Plato's love of mathematics, astronomy, and geometry led him to believe that the pursuit of these subjects was fundamental to any other instruction.

His methods for acquiring knowledge did not include empirical observation; rather, he favored abstract concepts. Aristotle agreed with Plato to a point but took it a step further in adding the necessity of gathering data and empirical study. He is credited with being the founder of modern methods of scientific research. On LoveSocrates held fast to the idea that the highest love is personal enlightenment without distractions (as in human love). Plato's views were similar, but his idea of the ultimate love was intellectual exchange without the pursuit of the physical pleasures being involved.

Aristotle took these concepts and divided love into two levels, sensual and spiritual. He supported the mastery of the Virtues as the highest form of love.On ExistenceSocrates held the conviction that existence was based on eternally true definitions; not so much that one could know all of them but that the definitions could be found. The truth could be found through examination of fact, both internally and externally. Plato postulated that what exists at birth is knowledge, to be recollected during one's lifetime.

Existence to Plato was one in which the mind explored the greater relationships with abstract thought. Aristotle argued that such higher forms existed in the things themselves, not in some other dimension.