Summary
Highlights
Initially, considering 'perfect' or 'ideal' versions of things like marriage or career might seem naive. However, the ancient Greek philosopher Plato vehemently disagreed, arguing that focusing on ideal versions is one of the most useful thought exercises. By understanding what something should be, we can identify what's wrong and work towards making the world better.
Plato used the word 'form' to describe an ideal version. For example, instead of asking about an ideal friendship, he'd ask about 'the form of friendship.' He envisioned this practically, much like a stonemason uses a wooden template or 'form' to ensure their carving is perfect. The form is a guide, a blueprint of instructions for making a very good version of something, leading us towards a true goal.
Possessing a well-thought-through set of forms, guided by philosophy, helps us in life. A 'form of friendship' is a mental model of what a truly good friendship entails, enabling us to be better friends. Similarly, a teacher with a 'form of education' in mind can maintain focus and direction amidst daily pressures, knowing where they ideally should be heading.
We often perceive ideals as unrealistic fantasies disconnected from reality. However, Plato viewed an ideal as the outcome of deep understanding and careful engagement with reality. For instance, someone setting up an airport would need to conceive of an ideal air traffic control system that's optimally effective, efficient, and safe – this person has grasped the 'form' of air traffic control.
Plato challenges the belief that seeking ideals is at odds with practical action in the real world. He encourages us to be more precise about our goals. If an ideal seems unattainable, the issue might not be that it's too idealistic, but rather not idealistic enough – meaning we haven't fully discovered its true form. Instead of abandoning ideals, we should be more ambitious about developing them, a process actively supported by Plato's philosophy.