The Third Man Argument
Article first published online: 4 JUN 2009
DOI: 10.1111/j.1747-9991.2009.00220.x
© 2009 The Author. Journal Compilation © 2009 Blackwell Publishing Ltd
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How to Cite
Bailey, D. T. J. (2009), The Third Man Argument. Philosophy Compass, 4: 666–681. doi: 10.1111/j.1747-9991.2009.00220.x
Publication History
- Issue published online: 6 JUL 2009
- Article first published online: 4 JUN 2009
- Philosophy Compass 4/4 (2009): 666–681, 10.1111/j.1747-9991.2009.00220.x
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Abstract
This paper is a brief discussion of the famous ‘Third Man Argument’ as it appears in Plato's dialogue Parmenides. I mention, criticise and refine the most influential analytic approach to the argument; show that the actual conclusion of the argument is different from the one attributed to it by the majority of scholars; and elaborate two responses to the argument, both of which shed interesting light on the Theory of Forms.