Question

Plato's theory of recollection sheds light on the origins of knowledge. Which among the following option(s) does it intend to explain?

• A. Philosophical and mathematical discoveries
• B. Our linguistic capacities
• C. Innateness of knowledge
• D. Only higher learning but not the ordinary learning

Hint:

According to Plato, knowledge is not something learned, but something recollected. This applies to both philosophical concepts and linguistic knowledge, which are innate to the soul.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A, B, C

Step 1: Understanding Plato’s theory of recollection.
Plato’s theory of recollection proposes that knowledge is innate and that learning is essentially the process of recollecting knowledge that the soul knew before birth. This theory explains the origins of certain kinds of knowledge, especially philosophical, mathematical, and linguistic knowledge.
Step 2: Analyzing the options.
- (A) Philosophical and mathematical discoveries: This is correct because Plato believed that knowledge of abstract concepts such as mathematics and philosophy is innate and not learned from experience.
- (B) Our linguistic capacities: This is also correct, as Plato’s theory suggests that linguistic knowledge, including the ability to know universal concepts like justice or beauty, is a form of recollection.
- (C) Innateness of knowledge: This is correct because the theory posits that all knowledge is innate and simply needs to be recollected.
- (D) Only higher learning but not the ordinary learning: This is incorrect because Plato’s theory applies to all knowledge, not just higher learning.
Step 3: Conclusion.
The correct answers are (A), (B), and (C), as they reflect the different aspects of knowledge that Plato’s theory of recollection is designed to explain.