Philosopher

Plotinus

Overview

Plotinus (; Ancient Greek: Πλωτῖνος, Plōtînos; c. 204/5 – 270 AD) was an ancient Greek philosopher, born and raised in Roman Egypt. He is widely regarded by modern scholars as the founder of Neoplatonism.

Plotinus was a student of the self-taught philosopher Ammonius Saccas, who belonged to the Platonic tradition. Historians in the 19th century coined the term "Neoplatonism" to describe Plotinus and his philosophy. This philosophical tradition was vastly influential during late antiquity, the Middle Ages, and the Renaissance.

In his metaphysical writings, Plotinus described three fundamental principles: the One, the Intellect, and the Soul. His works have inspired generations of pagan, Jewish, Christian, Gnostic, and early Islamic metaphysicians and mystics. His ideas shaped metaphysical works, particularly his work on duality of the One. These ideas later influenced several mainstream theological concepts within different religions.

Overview adapted from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0; see the article history for authors).

Plotinus

Overview

Works by Plotinus you can read

Philosophers who discussed Plotinus

Ideas Plotinus discusses

Place in the tradition