| Basic Concept: The Dualistic Universe
The "Dualistic Universe" refers to Plato's concept of the two natures of the universe. Plato perceived that the universe is characterized as both "material/physical" and "non-material/non-physical." Clearly, ideas exist, but they are obviously of a different state of reality than is that which we perceive around us in the physical world. Ideas must be non-material or non-physical, as must be all knowledge. . For Plato, there is no "disconnect" between the physical and non-physical states. Human beings illustrate in their own natures the presence of both the material and non-material. . Online Connection To read Plato's text on the "dual universe," see his discussion in the "Timaeus" in the "Dialogues of Plato." . Our Course Connection The "Dual Universe" is relevant as a Western interpretation of spirituality that influenced the Concord "transcendentalists" and their Eastern philosophy of the dual nature and unity of all things. Emerson read and annotated Plato's works extensively. . .  |