The theory of Forms or theory of Ideas is a viewpoint attributed to Plato, which holds that non-physical (but substantial) forms (or ideas) represent the most accurate reality. When used in this sense, the word form or idea is often capitalized. Plato speaks of these entities only through the characters (primarily Socrates) of his dialogues who sometimes suggest that these Forms are the only objects of study that can provide knowledge. The theory itself is contested from within Plato 's dialogues, and it is a general point of controversy in philosophy. Even whether the theory represents Plato 's own views is held in doubt by modern scholarship. However, the theory is considered a classical solution to the problem of universals.
what is the theory of forms in summary
non-physical (but substantial) forms (or ideas) represent the most accurate reality