The one, the self-proving, the good which is the higher sphere of dialectic, is the perfect truth to which all things ascend, and in which they finally repose.
This self-proving unity or idea of good is a mere vision of which no distinct explanation can be given, relative only to a particular stage in Greek philosophy.

It is an abstraction under which no individuals are comprehended, a whole which has no parts (Arist., Nic.

Eth.).

The vacancy of such a form was perceived by Aristotle, but not by Plato.
Nor did he recognize that in the dialectical process are included two or more methods of investigation which are at variance with each other.
He did not see that whether he took the longer or the shorter road, no advance could be made in this way.

And yet such visions often have an immense effect; for although the method of science cannot anticipate science, the idea of science, not as it is, but as it will be in the future, is a great and inspiring principle.