Theory of recollection

Definition

The theory of recollection is a philosophical concept proposed by Plato, suggesting that all learning is essentially a process of recalling knowledge that the soul already possesses from past experiences. This idea connects knowledge with memory, implying that the act of learning is not acquiring new information but rather remembering truths that the soul has forgotten due to its incarnation in the physical body.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Plato's theory of recollection argues that the soul is immortal and has knowledge of the Forms before birth, but forgets this knowledge upon entering a body.
2. In dialogues like 'Meno,' Plato uses the example of a slave boy solving a geometric problem to illustrate how recollection works, showing that he could arrive at the correct answer through guided questioning.
3. This theory serves as a foundation for Plato's views on education, emphasizing the importance of teaching as a means of helping students remember what they already know.
4. The theory contrasts with the idea that knowledge comes solely from sensory experience, positing instead that true knowledge is innate and accessible through introspection.
5. The concept has influenced many subsequent philosophical discussions about the nature of knowledge and learning, leading to debates on empiricism versus rationalism.

Review Questions

• How does Plato's theory of recollection explain the process of learning and knowledge acquisition?
  • Plato's theory of recollection suggests that learning is not about gaining new information but about recalling what the soul already knows. The soul has access to all knowledge from its existence before birth, but it forgets this when it incarnates into a physical body. Thus, education becomes a process of prompting individuals to remember these truths through guided questioning and introspection.
• Discuss how the theory of recollection relates to the concept of Platonic Forms and the nature of true knowledge.
  • The theory of recollection is deeply connected to Platonic Forms, as it posits that true knowledge comes from remembering these ideal Forms rather than from empirical observation. According to Plato, the physical world is merely a shadow of these perfect Forms, and by recollecting them, individuals can achieve genuine understanding. This relationship emphasizes that knowledge is eternal and intrinsic rather than temporary or externally derived.
• Evaluate the implications of the theory of recollection on contemporary views about education and learning methods.
  • The theory of recollection challenges contemporary education by suggesting that teaching should focus more on eliciting existing knowledge rather than simply delivering new information. This perspective encourages methods like inquiry-based learning and Socratic questioning, which aim to help students discover and articulate their understanding. It invites educators to consider how personal insights and self-discovery can foster deeper engagement with material, leading to meaningful learning experiences that resonate with each learner’s prior knowledge.

Related terms

anamnesis: Anamnesis refers to the process of recollection or remembrance in Plato's philosophy, particularly regarding the idea that knowledge is innate and can be brought to consciousness through questioning.

Platonic Forms: Platonic Forms are abstract, perfect ideals that exist beyond the physical world. Plato believed that these Forms represent true knowledge and that our learning involves recalling these ideal forms.

Socratic Method: The Socratic Method is a form of cooperative argumentative dialogue developed by Socrates, which employs questioning to stimulate critical thinking and to draw out ideas and underlying presumptions.