Definition

Neoplatonism (noun) 1. A philosophical and theological system: A school of thought that synthesizes elements from Platonism, Aristotelianism, and various oriental mystical traditions. Its most characteristic and defining doctrine asserts that the ultimate source and first principle of all reality is beyond ("transcends") ordinary being, thought, and human comprehension; it is inherently unknowable through standard intellectual means.

Usage

Neoplatonism is used as a proper noun to refer to this specific historical school of philosophy. * Neoplatonism was the dominant philosophical system in pagan Europe until the 6th century. * The theologian's work shows a clear influence of Neoplatonism. * Scholars study Neoplatonism to understand the transition from ancient to medieval thought.

Advanced Usage

• As an influence: The term is often used to describe the impact of this system on other bodies of thought.
  • Neoplatonism had a profound and lasting impact on the development of Christian theology, Islamic philosophy, and Renaissance humanism.
• In historical context: It is used to categorize thinkers, texts, or ideas belonging to this tradition.
  • Plotinus is considered the founder of Neoplatonism.
  • The Enneads are the central texts of Neoplatonism.

Variants and Related Words

• Neoplatonic (adjective): Pertaining to Neoplatonism.
  • Neoplatonic ideas about the soul's ascent to the One.
• Neoplatonist (noun): An adherent or scholar of Neoplatonism.
  • Pseudo-Dionysius was an important Christian Neoplatonist.

Synonyms

• (There are no direct synonyms for this specific, proper-noun school of thought. Related concepts include:)
• Platonism: The philosophy of Plato, which Neoplatonism developed and reinterpreted.
• Mystical philosophy: A general term for philosophies emphasizing direct, transcendent experience of the divine or ultimate reality.

Related Concepts and Doctrines

• The One / The Good: In Neoplatonism, this is the transcendent, ineffable first principle from which all existence emanates.
• Emanation: The process by which all levels of reality flow forth from the One, like light from a sun or water from a spring.
• The Nous (Intellect): The first level of reality to emanate from the One, containing the perfect Forms or archetypes.
• The World Soul: The principle that animates and orders the physical cosmos.
• Return / Ascent: The soul's journey back through these levels of reality towards union with the One.

Noun

1. a system of philosophical and theological doctrines composed of elements of Platonism and Aristotelianism and oriental mysticism; its most distinctive doctrine holds that the first principle and source of reality transcends being and thought and is naturally unknowable
   • Neoplatonism was predominant in pagan Europe until the 6th century
   • Neoplatonism was a major influence on early Christian writers and on later medieval and Renaissance thought and on Islamic philosophy