Synopsis
An in-depth study of Plotinus' central doctrine of Intellect by an acknowledged expert on the Neoplatonic tradition.
Review
A few years ago it would have been neccessary to begin this review by explaining, even to an erudite philosophical audience, who Plotinus was and why he had any important contribution to make to modern philosophy. Times are changing: recent discursive histories of the subject... all acknowledge Plotinus' historical significance and his charm. Emilsson's study will be of interest both to those already acquainted with his work and to those attracted to the topic by such recommendations... this is a welcome addition to the literature, much of which will be intelligible even to undergraduate student. (Stephen Clark, The Philosophical Quarterly)
Emilsson's thoughtful discussion is expressed in language that is, if not exactly colloquial, relaxed... This friendly and unassuming voice mitigates the fact that the topic is thorny even for a reader familiar with ancient philosophy and basics of the Neoplatonic worldview. Emilsson's study will hopefully, in time, soildify a statis as a classic work to refer by scholars writing not just on Plotinus, but on late ancient views on thinking, intellection, and knowledge. (Paulina Remes, Mind)
All Neoplatonic scholars will derive great benefit from E.'s thoughtful and mature treatment of some of the most intractable topics in Plotinus' philosophy. (John Bussanich, The Classical Review)
His work will no doubt be for many years to come a basic tool for all students of Plotinus' metaphysics and epistemology, but also for those interested in Neoplatonism as a philosophical set of doctrines articulated on a rational basis of occasionally gripping insightfulness. The book is well-produced and provided with useful and conveniently structure indices. (Paul Kalligas RHIZAI)
an extraordinary stimulating analysis of what is probably the most central and engaging aspect of Plotinus' metaphysics. (Andrew Smith, Bryn Mawr Classical Reviews)
Plotinian studies are currently flourishing...To this growing body of literature, E. K. Emilsson's Plotinus on Intellect is a most valuable addition. It addresses a main question in Plotinus' ontology, and it does so in the language of philosophy. Rather than remaining locked within the intricacies of Plotinus' system, in the manner of many a scholar working in the field, Emilsson is not afraid to stand back from the system...Emilsson is much to be congratulated for so seeking to extend Plotinus' appeal to a wider philosophical readership...The thesis itself and its varied ramifications are painstaking and lucidly argued for...Plotinus on Intellect is a well-produced book; typos are rare, references accurate and indices helpfully comprehensive...a fine work which deserves to become a point of reference for anyone working in the field. (Suzanne Stern-Gillett, Notre Dame Philosophical Reviews)
...an extraordinarily stimulating analysis... (Bryn Mawr Reviews)
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