Plotinus-Arg Philosophers

Arguments of the Philosophers

by Lloyd P. Gerson

First published in 1999. We are fortunate in possessing a fascinating document, The Life of Plotinus, written by the philosopher Porphyry, a pupil and associate of Plotinus for the last eight years of his life. The basic facts contained in this Life can be quickly recounted. Plotinus was likely a Greek born in Egypt in AD 205. It is possible, though, that he came from a Hellenized Egyptian or Roman family. In his 28th year, Plotinus discovered in himself a thirst for philosophy. This is a collection of his works- Ennead I contains treatises on what Porphyry calls “ethical matters”; Enneads II–III contain treatises on natural philosophy or cosmology, with some rationalizations for the inclusion of III. 4, 5, 7, and 8. Ennead IV concerns the soul; V Intellect or and VI being, numbers, and the One. The thematic unity of Enneads I, IV, and V is somewhat greater than the rest.

Genres: Philosophy

356 pages, Hardcover

First published September 29, 1994

About the author

Lloyd Gerson is Professor of Philosophy at the University of Toronto.

Reviews

[Josh · Rating 4 out of 5]

I found this a somewhat difficult read since I am still quite unfamiliar with Plotinus, but this book is admirable in its depth and helpfulness. Although I think I still have a long way to go before I fully grasp Plotinus.

[Ooniemme · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the great introductions to Plotinus