Neoplatonism
n. a school of philosophy based on a particular understanding of the teachings of Greek philosopher Plato (c. 427–c. 347 bce), especially as interpreted by Alexandrian philosopher Plotinus (204–270 ce). Neoplatonism retains Plato’s view that there is another perfect and eternal world that accounts for the things of the physical world (see Platonic idealism). In the strain developed by Plotinus, however, there is greater emphasis on an ultimate unity of the universe and a new sense that mysticism, as opposed to reason, is the way through which the other world is experienced. Neoplatonism was influential in the reconciliation of Christianity with classical philosophy in the Middle Ages (see Scholasticism) and the Renaissance. —Neoplatonist
n., adj.