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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.