Intermediate philosophy document “Two types of metaphysics” Metaphysics is that branch of philosophy that deals with revealing the theoretical nature of being and the world that surrounds it. The word “metaphysics” derives from the two Greek words μετά (metá) meaning beyond, and from the word φυσικά (physiká) meaning physics. This branch of philosophy began when ancient philosophers questioned what was beyond physics, concepts such as being, knowledge, cause, time, substance and space were questioned. Two ancient Greek philosophers who had the most influential views on metaphysics and also helped shape the future of Western philosophy were Plato and Aristotle. Although Plato taught Aristotle at an academy in Athens, they have very different opinions on many metaphysical principles. Comparing and contrasting the metaphysical views of Plato and Aristotle benefits anyone who wishes to understand the ancient and modern views and concepts of this important branch of philosophy. Plato was the student of the ancient philosopher Socrates. Plato's commitment was to the existence of a special class of existence known as "ideas" known as Forms. Plato was able to create his metaphysical beginning of the Forms by studying the ontology of his predecessors such as Parmenides. According to Plato, forms are the only true entity of study capable of providing us with absolute knowledge. Plato is faithful to the perseverance of an impartial and mind-independent world. Previous philosophers believe that our senses, which are our illusory access to the world, are completely wrong about the reality we live in, even Plato shares this belief. “The Form of the Good” is known by Plato as the intellectual splendor of all Forms. In Plato's famous book... half the paper... faded. Seeing these two types of metaphysics helps any individual understand metaphysical principles, as well as have a better understanding of the foundations of philosophy. Works Cited "Aristotle's Ten Categories". Aristotle's ten categories. Np, nd Web. October 20, 2013."Categories (Aristotle)." Wikipedia. Wikimedia Foundation, 8 February 2013. Web. 20 October 2013.Harte, Truth. "Plato's Metaphysics." Plato's Metaphysics (2008): 1-5. Print.Publication: The Oxford Handbook of PlatoMarc, Cohen, S. "The Metaphysics of Aristotle." Stanford University. Stanford University, October 8, 2000. Web. October 20, 2013.Morris, Thomas V. Philosophy for Dummies. Foster City, CA: IDG Worldwide, 1999. Print.Np, nd Web. October 20, 2013. “Substance, Matter, and Form.” Substance, matter and form. Np, nd Web. October 20. 2013.