Theory of ideas

The Theory of Ideas, often associated with philosophers like Plato, suggests that abstract concepts or "ideas" exist independently of the physical world. For instance, the idea of beauty or justice is seen as a perfect form that transcends individual examples we encounter in our lives. In this view, what we perceive in reality is just an imperfect representation of these ideal forms. Essentially, this theory emphasizes the importance of understanding deeper meanings and truths that go beyond mere appearances in the material world.