Plotinus

Plotinus (205?–270?), Greek philosopher, founder of Neoplatonism. Bom in Egypt, he moved to Greece to study philosophy. His learning led him to develop Neoplatonism and to found a school where he taught that philosophy. Based on the philosophy of Plato and other Greek philosophers, as well as on Indian philosophy, Neoplatonism is the belief that the material world is an unimportant illusion, and that reality is spiritual and can only be experienced by those whose souls are pure. After 244, Plotinus moved to Rome to continue his teachings there. His beliefs were popular with many Romans, and he inspired early Christians, particularly St. Augustine. The Enneads is a collection of some of his lectures.

See also: Neoplatonism.