The Problem of Evil in Plotinus - Classic Study of Neoplatonism

In this review of The Problem of Evil in Plotinus, the reviewer recommends the book for readers seeking a clear, early-20th-century analysis of how Plotinus confronts the tension between an all-encompassing divine unity and the imperfect, changing world. First published in 1912, B. A. G. Fullers volume unpacks the central philosophical puzzle about permanence and multiplicity in a concise, readable format, making it valuable for students of ancient philosophy and theology who want a focused treatment rather than a modern synthetic overview.

Key Features

• Historical focus: The book situates Plotinus within the ancient Greek tradition, which helps readers understand the original context of Neoplatonic thought and its concern with the divine One.
• Philosophical clarity: Fuller addresses the central contradiction between divine unity and worldly multiplicity in straightforward prose, making complex arguments accessible to non-specialists.
• Theological relevance: The discussion on reconciling an omnipotent deity with a contingent world offers value for readers interested in the crossroads of philosophy and theology.
• Compact presentation: As an early 20th-century volume, the book delivers a focused examination rather than sprawling commentary, which benefits readers looking for a concentrated study.
• Scholarly usefulness: The text serves as a useful historical reference for students researching classical treatments of the problem of evil within Neoplatonism.

Who It's For

The Problem of Evil in Plotinus is best for undergraduate and graduate students, clergy, or independent readers with a basic familiarity with classical philosophy who want a historical perspective on Neoplatonic solutions to the problem of evil. Its readable style and focused argumentation make it appropriate as a supplementary text in courses on late antiquity or theology.

Readers seeking a contemporary survey that engages recent scholarship, archaeological findings, or comparative modern metaphysics should look elsewhere; this edition reflects early 20th-century scholarship and keeps to traditional textual and conceptual analysis rather than recent interdisciplinary approaches.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Provides a clear, historically grounded exposition of Plotinus's responses to the problem of evil.
• Useful as a concise reference for the tension between permanence and change in Neoplatonic thought.
• Accessible prose that helps non-specialists follow complex theological questions.

Cons

• As a 1912 publication, it does not incorporate modern scholarship or recent interpretive trends.

Specifications

Title	The Problem of Evil in Plotinus
Author	B. A. G. Fuller
First published	1912
Subject	Plotinus, Neoplatonism, problem of evil
Intended audience	Students of ancient philosophy and theology
Scope	Reconciliation of divine unity and worldly multiplicity

Our Verdict

The Problem of Evil in Plotinus is a worthwhile purchase for readers who want a succinct, historically minded treatment of Neoplatonic responses to the problem of evil; its clarity and focused scope make it good value as a reference or course supplement, though those seeking recent scholarship should pair it with later studies.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does this book explain Plotinus's basic metaphysics?
Yes. The text outlines Plotinus's emphasis on the One and the contrast between permanence and multiplicity central to his metaphysical outlook.

Is this suitable for beginners?
It is readable for motivated beginners but assumes some familiarity with classical philosophical terms and the general problem of evil.

Will I find modern scholarship here?
No. Being published in 1912, the book reflects early 20th-century interpretation and should be supplemented with recent works for up-to-date scholarship.