PHILOSOPHY

FOR CSS/PMS
FAISAL HAYAT GONDAL –
PAS 11th Position
(CSS 22, 20, PMS 21)
Why philosophy?

● SHORT SYLLABUS
● GOOD SCORING
● GOOD FOR POL SCIENCE STUDENTS
● TO THE POINT QUESTIONS
Comparison of CSS and
PMS Syllabus
 Topic PMS (Western Philosophy) CSS

Introduction: Nature and Value of Philosophy ✔ ✔

Greek Philosophers ✔ ✔

Modern Philosophers ✔ ✔

Contemporary Philosophical Movements ✔ ✔

Muslim Philosophy ✔ ✔

Genesis and Development of Thought in Islam ✔ ✔

Muslim Theology ✔ ✔

Sufism ✔ ✔

Muslim Philosophers ✔ ✔

Modern Reconstructionists of Islamic Thought ✔ ✔

Contemporary Debates ✔ ✔
Past Paper Analysis
Past Paper Analysis
Basic concepts in Philosophy
 Concept Definition

Absurdism The idea that life can sometimes seem really silly or strange.

Aesthetics Thinking about what looks beautiful or sounds nice.

Analytic Philosophy Thinking carefully about words and ideas to understand them better.

Causality Understanding how one thing happening can make something else happen.

Cosmology Learning about the big universe and how everything in it fits together.

Dialectics Talking with others to understand different ideas and find solutions.

Empiricism Learning by seeing and experiencing things.

Ethics Figuring out what is good and bad, and how to do the right thing.

Existentialism Thinking about how each person's life is special and meaningful.

Idealism Believing that the world can be better if people think positively.
 Concept Definition

Materialism Thinking that everything is made of stuff like rocks and water.

Metaphysics Wondering about really big questions like "Why are we here?"

Nihilism Sometimes feeling like nothing really matters.

Ontology Figuring out what things are and what they mean.

Phenomenology Paying attention to how things feel and seem to us.

Pragmatism Thinking about what works best in different situations.

Rationalism Using our brains to figure out the answers to questions.

Realism Believing that the world is real and not just in our heads.

Skepticism Asking lots of questions and not always believing the answers right away.

Solipsism Sometimes feeling like you're the only real person in the world.
 Concept Definition

Stoicism Staying calm and strong even when things are tough.

Teleology Thinking about what things are for and why they exist.

Theism Believing in a higher power, like a god or gods.

Utilitarianism Trying to make everyone as happy as possible.

Virtue ethics Thinking about what makes a person good or bad.

Voluntarism Believing that we can choose to do things and make a difference.

Absolutism Thinking that some things are always right or always wrong, no matter what.

Relativism Believing that what's true or good can change depending on the situation.

Dualism Thinking that there are two different kinds of things in the world.

Monism Believing that everything is really just one thing.

Plato: the first of the philosopher
 Plato: Metaphysics: Theory of Forms

● One of Plato's most significant contributions to metaphysics is his theory of

Forms (or Ideas).
● According to Plato, there exists a perfect, unchanging realm of Forms that
represent the true essence of things.
● These Forms are abstract, timeless entities that serve as the ultimate reality
behind the physical world.

Forms, in the context of Plato's philosophy, refer to abstract, universal

concepts or ideas that represent the true essence of things. They are eternal,
unchanging entities that exist independently of the physical world.
 Theory of Forms

● Imagine you have a favorite toy car. You might have many toy cars of different colors and sizes,
but they all share something in common - they are all cars.
● According to Plato, there exists a perfect, ideal form of a car that embodies the essence of what
it means to be a car.
● This perfect form of a car is eternal, unchanging, and exists in a realm separate from the
physical world.
● Similarly, there is a perfect form for every concept or idea we encounter - whether it's beauty,
justice, goodness, or even specific objects like trees, animals, or geometric shapes. These forms
are the ultimate reality, and the physical objects we perceive with our senses are merely
imperfect copies or reflections of these ideal forms.
● In essence, forms are like blueprints or templates that define the fundamental qualities and
characteristics of things in the world. They serve as the standard against which we measure and
understand the objects and concepts we encounter in our everyday lives.
 Dualism

Plato believed in the dualistic nature of reality, positing the existence of two separate
realms - the physical world of appearances and the world of Forms.

• This dualism suggests a distinction between the imperfect, transient world of senses
and the perfect, eternal world of Forms.

• For Plato, dualism primarily refers to the distinction between the physical
world of appearances and the metaphysical realm of Forms.

•Imagine you are watching a shadow play on a wall. The shadows are
constantly changing and shifting, but they are not the true reality. They are
merely representations of something else.
 Dualism

Plato believed that there is a higher reality beyond the physical world.
• This realm, known as the world of Forms or Ideas, consists of perfect, eternal, and
unchanging Forms that represent the true essence of things.

• These Forms exist independently of the physical world and are the ultimate reality.
For example, imagine you see a beautiful flower. According to Plato, the flower you see is
merely a temporary, imperfect reflection of the perfect Form of Beauty that exists in the
realm of Forms. The flower may wither and fade, but the Form of Beauty remains eternal
and unchanging.
In Plato's dualism, the physical world of appearances is characterized by
imperfection, change, and transience, while the world of Forms
represents perfection, constancy, and true reality. The goal of
philosophy, according to Plato, is to move beyond the illusions of the
physical world and contemplate the timeless truths of the Forms.
 Epistemology

Plato's epistemology, or theory of knowledge, is centered around the idea that true knowledge is not derived
from sensory experience, but rather from rational insight and contemplation of abstract concepts

Theory of Forms:

● It posits that behind the changing world of appearances lies a realm of perfect, eternal Forms or Ideas. These
Forms represent the true essence of things, such as Beauty, Justice, or Goodness. According to Plato, the physical
objects we encounter in the world are imperfect copies or reflections of these Forms.

Knowledge as Recollection:

● Plato suggests that the soul possesses innate knowledge of the Forms, acquired before birth and forgotten upon
entering the physical world. True knowledge, then, is a process of recollection or remembering these eternal
truths through philosophical inquiry and contemplation. For example, when we encounter instances of beauty or
justice in the world, we are reminded of the Form of Beauty or the Form of Justice that we once knew.
 Epistemology

The Divided Line:

● Plato uses the metaphor of the Divided Line to illustrate the hierarchy of knowledge. At the highest level are the
Forms, which are known through intellectual intuition or reason. Below the Forms are the realm of mathematical
objects, followed by the physical world of visible objects, and finally, the realm of shadows or illusions. Plato argues
that true knowledge is found in the intelligible realm of the Forms, rather than in the sensory world of appearances.

Dialectic:

 Plato believed that true knowledge is obtained through dialectical reasoning, a process of question-and-answer
dialogue aimed at uncovering underlying truths and contradictions. Through dialectic, individuals engage in critical
inquiry and logical analysis to arrive at genuine insights into the nature of reality.

Overall, Plato's epistemology emphasizes the importance of rational inquiry, intellectual intuition, and contemplation
of the Forms in attaining true knowledge. It challenges the reliability of sense perception and empirical observation as
sources of knowledge, advocating instead for the pursuit of abstract, eternal truths through philosophical reflection.
 The Allegory of the Cave

Plato's famous allegory of the cave serves as an illustration of

his metaphysical concepts. In this allegory, people are
depicted as prisoners chained inside a cave, where they can
only perceive shadows cast by objects outside the cave. The
allegory symbolizes the journey from ignorance to
enlightenment, highlighting the contrast between the illusory
world of appearances and the realm of true knowledge.
https://www.themarginalian.org/2015/03/23/plato-allegory-of-the-cave-ted-ed/
 Element Representation

Cave Physical world or realm of appearances

Prisoners Ordinary people who are unaware of higher truths

Chains Ignorance or bondage to false beliefs

Wall Barrier between prisoners and true reality

Shadows on the Wall Illusions or false perceptions of reality

Fire Source of light casting shadows on the wall

Puppeteers Manipulators or those who control perceptions

Escape from the Cave Enlightenment or realization of higher truths

Outside World Realm of Forms or true reality

Sunlight Form of the Good or ultimate reality

Return to the Cave Effort to enlighten others or share newfound wisdom

Rejection by Fellow Prisoners Resistance to enlightenment or refusal to accept truth

 Transcendental Idealism

Ontological Views:

● Plato posits the existence of a realm of Forms, representing ultimate reality.

● The cave symbolizes the illusory nature of the physical world, lacking true substance.
● Liberation from the cave signifies the philosopher's quest for enlightenment beyond appearances.

Epistemological Views:

● True knowledge, for Plato, arises from rational insight, not sensory experience.
● The Allegory illustrates the process of recollection or remembering eternal truths.
● Dialectical reasoning is crucial for uncovering underlying truths and contradictions.
 Transcendental Idealism

Plato's metaphysics can be considered a form of transcendental

idealism, as he posited the existence of a higher reality beyond
the physical world. He believed that the Forms, being perfect
and eternal, transcend the limitations of space and time, existing
independently of human perception.
 Key Points Explanation

1. Forms Plato posited the existence of perfect, eternal Forms or Ideas, representing the true essence of things.

2. Recollection According to Plato, the soul possesses innate knowledge of the Forms, acquired before birth and forgotten upon entering the physical world.

3. True Knowledge True knowledge, for Plato, arises from rational insight and contemplation of the Forms, rather than sensory experience.

4. Epistemology Plato's Theory of Knowledge, or epistemology, challenges the reliability of sense perception as a source of true understanding.

5. Innate Knowledge Plato suggests that individuals have innate knowledge of the Forms, which they recollect through philosophical inquiry.

6. Dialectic Plato believed that true knowledge is obtained through dialectical reasoning, a process of question-and-answer dialogue.

7. Intellectual Intuition Plato emphasizes the importance of intellectual intuition in attaining true understanding of the Forms.

8. Essence vs. Appearance Plato distinguishes between the true essence of things, represented by the Forms, and the deceptive appearances of the physical world.

9. Critical Inquiry Plato advocates for critical inquiry and logical analysis to uncover underlying truths and contradictions.

10. Ideal Forms Plato's Theory of Knowledge centers around the pursuit of knowledge of the ideal Forms, such as Justice, Beauty, and Goodness.
 Key Points Explanation

11. Transcendence True knowledge transcends the limitations of the physical world and leads to enlightenment.

12. Philosopher's Quest Plato portrays the philosopher's quest for knowledge as a journey of recollection and intellectual exploration.

13. Dualism Plato's epistemology reflects his dualistic view of reality, distinguishing between the material world and the world of Forms.

14. Intellectual Virtue Plato considers intellectual virtue, such as wisdom and insight, as essential for attaining true knowledge.

15. Education Plato emphasizes the role of education in guiding individuals towards the contemplation of the Forms and the pursuit of knowledge.

16. Objective Truth Plato believes in the existence of objective truths that can be known through rational inquiry and contemplation.

17. Critique of Empiricism Plato critiques empiricism, arguing that sensory perception alone cannot lead to genuine understanding of reality.

18. Idealism Plato's Theory of Knowledge aligns with idealism, which emphasizes the primacy of ideas and mental constructs.

19. Allegory of the Cave Plato's Allegory of the Cave serves as a metaphorical illustration of his epistemological views.

Plato's Theory of Knowledge has had a profound influence on Western philosophy, shaping subsequent philosophical inquiry and
20. Legacy
debate.
 Theory of the state

Plato's theory of the state can be understood through the analogy of a well-ordered ship,
where each element corresponds to a key concept in his philosophy:
Philosopher-King as the Captain:
● In Plato's ideal state, the philosopher-king represents the captain of the ship. Just as
the captain possesses wisdom and navigational skills to guide the ship safely, the
philosopher-king governs with wisdom and knowledge of the Forms to lead the state
towards justice and harmony.
Guardians as the Crew:
● The guardians of the state act as the crew members of the ship.
● They are responsible for maintaining order, protecting the state, and ensuring that
the laws and principles set by the philosopher-king are upheld.
● Similar to the crew's duty to follow the captain's orders, the guardians obey the
philosopher-king's directives for the common good of the society.
 Theory of the state

Tripartite Soul as the Ship's Components:

● Plato's concept of the tripartite soul, consisting of reason, spirit, and appetite, can be likened to the
different components of the ship.
● Reason corresponds to the ship's navigational system, guiding its course based on rational judgment.
● Spirit represents the crew's morale and determination to fulfill their duties, ensuring the ship's efficiency
and cohesion.
● Appetite symbolizes the ship's basic needs and functions, such as sustenance and maintenance,
essential for its survival and operation.
Education as Navigation Training:

● Plato emphasizes the importance of education in shaping individuals and society. In the analogy,
education serves as the navigation training provided to the crew members, equipping them with the skills,
knowledge, and virtues necessary to fulfill their roles effectively.
● Just as competent sailors are essential for a successful voyage, well-educated citizens are crucial for the
prosperity and stability of the state.
 Theory of the state

Virtue as Smooth Sailing:

● Plato equates virtue with knowledge and emphasizes its importance for individual and
societal well-being.
● In the analogy, virtue ensures smooth sailing for the ship, preventing conflicts, disturbances,
and disasters.
● Similarly, in the state, the cultivation of virtue among its citizens leads to harmony, justice,
and prosperity, enabling the society to navigate challenges and achieve its goals effectively.

By applying these concepts to the analogy of a well-ordered ship, Plato illustrates his vision of
the ideal state governed by philosopher-kings, protected by guardians, guided by reason, and
sustained by virtue. Just as a well-organized crew under the leadership of a skilled captain
ensures the success of a voyage, Plato's theory of the state posits that a harmonious society
led by wise rulers and virtuous citizens can achieve the highest ideals of justice, wisdom, and
flourishing.
 Ontological Perspective

 Plato's ontological perspective, as illustrated through his Theory of

Forms, posits that there exists a realm of eternal and immutable Forms
or Ideas, which represent the ultimate reality behind the changing world
of appearances.
 In the context of the theory of the state, Plato envisions the philosopher-
king as someone who possesses knowledge of the Forms, particularly
the Form of the Good, which represents the highest and most
fundamental reality.
 The philosopher-king's understanding of the Forms influences their
governance and policymaking, aiming to align the state with the
transcendent truths and ideals represented by the Forms.
 Epistemological Perspective

 Plato's epistemological perspective emphasizes the distinction between

knowledge acquired through reason and rational insight versus
knowledge obtained through sensory experience.
 He believes that true knowledge, which corresponds to the Forms, is
obtained through intellectual intuition and dialectical reasoning, rather
than through empirical observation alone.
 In the theory of the state, the philosopher-king's possession of true
knowledge, derived from contemplation of the Forms, informs their
governance decisions and ensures that the state's policies are guided by
rational insight and wisdom, rather than mere opinion or sensory
perception.
Questions