Heidegger vs. Plato

Attribute	Heidegger	Plato
Philosophical Tradition	Existentialism	Ancient Greek Philosophy
Notable Works	Being and Time	The Republic
Concept of Being	Dasein (Being-in-the-world)	Forms/Ideas
Epistemology	Phenomenology	Theory of Forms
Metaphysics	Ontology	Metaphysics of Forms

Background

Martin Heidegger and Plato are two of the most influential philosophers in the history of Western thought. Heidegger, a German philosopher of the 20th century, is known for his existentialist and phenomenological approach to philosophy. Plato, an ancient Greek philosopher, is famous for his dialogues and his theory of forms. While they lived in different time periods and had different philosophical methodologies, there are some interesting similarities and differences between Heidegger and Plato.

Metaphysics

Heidegger's metaphysical thought is centered around the concept of "Being." He believed that the question of Being is the most fundamental question in philosophy, and that understanding Being is essential to understanding the nature of existence. Plato, on the other hand, focused on the theory of forms. He believed that the physical world is a mere reflection of the world of forms, which are eternal and unchanging. While Heidegger's focus on Being is more existential and subjective, Plato's theory of forms is more abstract and objective.

Epistemology

Heidegger's approach to epistemology is closely tied to his concept of Being. He believed that knowledge is not something that can be objectively grasped, but is instead a product of our subjective experience of Being. Plato, on the other hand, believed in the existence of objective truths that can be known through reason and rational inquiry. He famously described knowledge as "justified true belief." While Heidegger's epistemology is more subjective and experiential, Plato's is more objective and rational.

Ethics

Heidegger's ethical philosophy is deeply intertwined with his concept of authenticity. He believed that living an authentic life means being true to one's own Being and embracing one's own individuality. Plato, on the other hand, focused on the concept of the good. He believed that the ultimate goal of ethics is to achieve the highest good, which he identified with the form of the good. While Heidegger's ethics are more personal and subjective, Plato's are more universal and objective.

Politics

Heidegger was famously involved with the Nazi party in Germany during World War II, which has led to much controversy surrounding his political beliefs. Some critics argue that his philosophy of Being can be interpreted as supporting totalitarianism. Plato, on the other hand, was a proponent of philosopher-kings ruling over society in his ideal state outlined in "The Republic." He believed that only those who have knowledge of the forms can govern justly. While Heidegger's political views are more ambiguous and controversial, Plato's are more idealistic and utopian.

Legacy

Both Heidegger and Plato have had a lasting impact on the history of philosophy. Heidegger's existentialist and phenomenological approach has influenced many philosophers in the 20th century, including Jean-Paul Sartre and Maurice Merleau-Ponty. Plato's dialogues and theory of forms have been studied and debated for centuries, and his ideas continue to be relevant in contemporary philosophy. While Heidegger and Plato had different philosophical methodologies and beliefs, they both made significant contributions to the field of philosophy and continue to be studied and debated by scholars around the world.