Plato’s most famous student was Aristotle. Plato and Aristotle had a significant impact on Western philosophy, with their teachings shaping various disciplines including ethics, metaphysics, and political theory.
Aristotle studied at Plato’s Academy in Athens for about 20 years. Though he respected Plato’s work, Aristotle developed his own philosophies that often contrasted with those of his teacher. For instance, while Plato emphasized the existence of abstract Forms, Aristotle focused on empirical observation and the material world.
After Plato’s death, Aristotle founded his own school, the Lyceum, where he continued to explore and teach a wide range of subjects. Their differing views have led to debates that continue in philosophy to this day.