Single Idea 17

[catalogued under 8. Modes of Existence / D. Universals / 6. Platonic Forms / b. Partaking]

Full Idea

We always postulate a single form for each set of particular things, to which we apply the same name.

Gist of Idea

A Form applies to a set of particular things with the same name

Source

Plato (The Republic [c.371 BCE], 596a)

Book Reference

Plato: 'Republic', ed/tr. Waterfield,Robin [OUP 1993], p.345


A Reaction

This implies that the Forms have a great deal in common with the things, but also hints at the possibility of the Form being quite different from the particular things.