Recollection Argument

Definition

The recollection argument is a philosophical concept posited by Plato, suggesting that learning is essentially the process of recollecting knowledge that the soul has already encountered in a previous existence. This idea connects to the nature of the soul's immortality, proposing that because we can access this knowledge without having learned it in our current lives, our souls must have lived before and possessed this knowledge inherently.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The recollection argument is primarily found in Plato's dialogues, especially in 'Meno' and 'Phaedo', where Socrates illustrates how individuals can recall information that they have not consciously learned.
2. The argument supports the idea that our souls are immortal, as it implies they existed before birth and thus had experiences that shaped their innate knowledge.
3. Through the recollection argument, Plato asserts that true knowledge is innate and is 'remembered' rather than newly acquired through teaching or experience.
4. This argument also serves as a foundation for Plato's Theory of Forms, as it implies that the knowledge we recall relates to the perfect forms existing in a non-physical realm.
5. Critics of the recollection argument question whether it adequately explains how we acquire new knowledge, suggesting that empirical learning plays a more significant role than mere recollection.

Review Questions

• How does the recollection argument support the idea of the immortality of the soul?
  • The recollection argument supports the immortality of the soul by suggesting that learning is not about acquiring new information but rather about recalling knowledge from previous existences. Since individuals can access knowledge they have not learned in their current life, it implies that their souls must have lived before and retained this information. This continuity of knowledge across different lifetimes indicates that the soul persists beyond physical death.
• In what ways does the recollection argument connect to Plato's Theory of Forms?
  • The recollection argument connects to Plato's Theory of Forms by asserting that what we recall are the perfect forms or ideals that exist in a non-material realm. The knowledge that individuals access through recollection points to an understanding of these forms, which represent the ultimate truth behind tangible objects. Thus, both concepts highlight a dualistic view of reality: one where our physical experiences are reflections of a higher level of existence defined by abstract forms.
• Evaluate the criticisms of the recollection argument and discuss their implications for Plato's overall philosophy.
  • Critics argue that the recollection argument may not fully account for how we learn new concepts and skills, emphasizing empirical evidence and experiences as crucial components of knowledge acquisition. This skepticism challenges Plato's assertion that all knowledge is innate and raises questions about his Theory of Forms and belief in the immortality of the soul. If learning involves more than mere recollection, it suggests that Plato's philosophy may lack a comprehensive explanation for human cognition and experience in relation to knowledge.

Related terms

Theory of Forms:

Plato's concept that non-material abstract forms or ideas represent the most accurate reality, serving as the perfect templates for all tangible objects we encounter.

Immortality of the Soul: The belief that the soul persists beyond physical death, continuing to exist and potentially experiencing cycles of rebirth or a journey toward ultimate truth.

Socratic Method:

A form of cooperative argumentative dialogue between individuals, based on asking and answering questions to stimulate critical thinking and illuminate ideas.