Plotinus on sense-perception : a philosophical study /

This specialized study of Plotinus successfully overcomes the difficulties that beset the task of bringing together the relevant texts to produce a cohesive account of Plotinus's theory of sense-perception. The discussion uses the sections of the Enneads that permit a reconstruction of Platonic, Aristotelian, and Stoic theories as background against which Plotinus builds his contribution to the psychology of perception. The result is a systematic and detailed exposition of the fundamental issues. After introducing basic considerations of Plotinian metaphysics, Emilsson proceeds with an exposition of the general theory of soul. Separate chapters are devoted to each of the following topics: the principles for a theory of vision; general sensory affection; the unity of the senses; the objects of perception; and perceptions as acts together with forms in perception. He concludes with a careful and original analysis of judgment (with perceptions connected as special cases). The discussion on Plotinus's body-soul dualism anticipates celebrated modern positions; it is one of the most valuable features of Emilsson's study. Recommended for graduate students and faculty. -J. P. Anton, University of South Florida