neoplatonism
C2Academic, Philosophical, Historical
Definition
Meaning
A philosophical system developed in the 3rd century AD, synthesizing Platonic thought with other philosophical and mystical traditions, which posits a single supreme source from which all existence emanates.
In broader cultural contexts, it refers to any philosophical or artistic movement influenced by these ideas, emphasizing spiritual ascent, the transcendence of the One, and the hierarchical structure of reality.
Linguistics
Semantic Notes
Always capitalized. Refers specifically to the post-Classical development, distinct from Plato's original works. Often implies a mystical or theological dimension not present in original Platonism.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant difference in meaning. Slightly more frequent in British academic writing on late antiquity and Renaissance thought.
Connotations
In both varieties, connotes complex, abstract, spiritually-oriented philosophy. In popular usage, may vaguely denote any obscure or idealistic system.
Frequency
Very low frequency in general language; exclusive to specialized humanities discourse.
Vocabulary
Collocations
Grammar
Valency Patterns
Neoplatonism + verb (flourished, emerged, influenced)Adjective + Neoplatonism (Alexandrian, Florentine)Vocabulary
Synonyms
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms
Usage
Context Usage
Academic
Central to studies of late antique philosophy, Renaissance humanism, and the history of theology.
Everyday
Virtually never used.
Technical
Used precisely to denote the philosophical schools of Plotinus, Porphyry, Iamblichus, Proclus, and their successors.
Examples
By Part of Speech
adjective
British English
- The Neoplatonic concept of the One
American English
- A Neoplatonic interpretation of the myth
Examples
By CEFR Level
- Neoplatonism was a major influence on early Christian theologians.
- The artist's work shows clear signs of Neoplatonic ideas about beauty.
- Augustine's thought represents a sophisticated synthesis of Christianity and Neoplatonism.
- Marsilio Ficino's translation of Plato was instrumental in disseminating Neoplatonic concepts throughout Renaissance Europe.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think NEW (Neo) PLATO-nism: The new philosophical system built upon Plato's ideas.
Conceptual Metaphor
PHILOSOPHY IS A HIERARCHICAL STRUCTURE; REALITY IS AN EMANATION FROM A SINGLE SOURCE.
Watch out
Common Pitfalls
Translation Traps (for Russian speakers)
- Не путать с 'платонизмом' (учение Платона). 'Неоплатонизм' — это конкретное историческое течение.
Common Mistakes
- Using lowercase 'n' (must be capitalized).
- Confusing it with Plato's original works.
- Misspelling as 'Neo-platonism' (no hyphen).
Practice
Quiz
Which of these is a core concept of Neoplatonism?
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No. Neoplatonism is a later development (3rd century AD onward) that interprets and expands on Plato's ideas, incorporating elements from Aristotle, Stoicism, and mystical traditions, with a strong focus on a hierarchical universe emanating from a single supreme principle.
Plotinus (c. 204/5 – 270 AD) is traditionally considered the founder, though he saw himself as an interpreter of Plato. His teachings were systematized by his student Porphyry.
Yes, profoundly. Early Church Fathers like Augustine and Pseudo-Dionysius incorporated Neoplatonic concepts into Christian theology, especially regarding the nature of God, the soul, and the spiritual ascent.
The 'One' is the supreme, transcendent, and ineffable first principle from which all existence emanates. It is beyond being and intellect, and is the ultimate source of all reality and goodness.