Plotinus on Self: The Philosophy of the 'We' - focused study

In this review of Plotinus on Self: The Philosophy of the 'We', the reviewer finds a focused, scholarly study best suited to readers who want a careful map of Neoplatonic psychology rather than an introductory survey. Dr Pauliina Remes tracks Plotinus' two notions of self-the corporeal and the rational-and shows how those concepts root in Platonic ontology, making this book valuable for readers seeking rigorous argumentation about selfhood, ethics and therapeutic implications.

Key Features

• Dual concept of self: The book clearly distinguishes the corporeal and rational selves, which helps readers follow Plotinus' account of personality and imperfection versus strive for understanding.
• Philosophical grounding: Remes locates both selfhoods within deep Platonic ontological commitments, aiding readers who need context for Neoplatonic positions.
• Interdisciplinary reach: The text traces manifestations in philosophical psychology, emotional therapy and ethics, offering material useful beyond pure history of philosophy.
• Close textual engagement: The work follows manifestations and interrelations of the two selves, which benefits readers who appreciate detailed argument over broad generalities.
• Focus on human tension: By treating the uneasy coexistence of temporal corporeality and abstract reasoning, the book foregrounds practical philosophical questions about self-government.

Who It's For

This book is aimed at graduate students, scholars and serious readers of ancient philosophy who want a focused analysis of Plotinus' psychology and ethics rather than a general introduction. Its strength is systematic argumentation about ontology and selfhood that presumes some background in Platonic and Neoplatonic sources.

Readers seeking a light, popular overview or an introductory textbook should look elsewhere; the treatment is best appreciated by those ready for close philosophical readings and interest in implications for therapy and moral theory.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Provides a clear distinction between corporeal and rational selves that sharpens understanding of Plotinian psychology.
• Situates the discussion in Platonic ontology, which strengthens the historical and conceptual grounding.
• Connects philosophical ideas to emotional therapy and ethics, broadening relevance beyond textual exegesis.

Cons

• Not intended as an introductory primer, so readers without prior exposure to Plato or Plotinus may find some sections demanding.

Specifications

Title	Plotinus on Self: The Philosophy of the 'We'
Author	Pauliina Remes
Subject	Neoplatonic philosophy, philosophical psychology
Key concepts	Corporeal self; Rational self; Platonic ontology
Approach	Scholarly analysis with interdisciplinary implications
Applications	Ethics, emotional therapy, history of ideas

Our Verdict

Plotinus on Self is a compact, rigorous study that rewards readers who want a conceptually precise account of Plotinus' two selves and their ethical and therapeutic bearings. It is good value for scholars and advanced students because it ties close textual reading to ontological interpretation and practical philosophical questions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does this book require prior knowledge of Plato?
Some familiarity with Plato and basic Neoplatonic ideas will help readers follow the arguments, as the book assumes background in Platonic ontology.

Does the book address practical therapy?
The author traces implications for emotional therapy and ethical self-government, but the treatment is philosophical rather than clinical.

Is this a general introduction to Plotinus?
No; it is a focused scholarly study on the dual notions of self and their interrelations within Plotinus' thought.