Description
Book SynopsisIn a wide-ranging book likely to cause controversy, Lloyd P. Gerson sets out the case for the "harmony" of Platonism and Aristotelianism, the standard view in late antiquity.
Trade ReviewThe title of this work indicates quite clearly where the author stands regarding the relationship of these two ancient philosophers: Aristotle, contrary to the usual thinking in the philosophical literature, is a Platonist. Gerson arrives at this position by examining in detail the writings of the Neoplatonists and others of the period and concluding that they were correct in assuming that there was no real conflict in the overall thinking of the two men and that, indeed, their thinking was 'harmonious.'
* LIBRARY JOURNAL *
Gerson examines the neglected work of the classical 'harmonists,' those Neoplatonic philosophers of late antiquity who sought to reconcile the opposing doctrinal positions of Platonism and Aristotelianism.... Although some of the harmonists' claims are dubious, Gerson does a fine job defending the essential points of their argumentation. This is an important book that should reshape readers' understanding of the history of classical philosophy.
* Choice *
A marvelous contribution to the study of ancient philosophy.
-- Richard Kraut * Classical Philology *
The paradigm of opposition between Plato and Aristotle is addressed by Gerson in his learned, fascinating, and persuasive book.
-- Rosamond Kent Sprague * Ancient Philosophy *
This is one of the most important and challenging books on Aristotle in recent memory. I think Lloyd Gerson is unlikely to persuade everyone of the truth of what he says. Nor perhaps will he convince anyone of the truth of all the things he says. But if this book does not succeed in disturbing some dogmatic slumbers, I will be very surprised and more than a little disappointed. I urge anyone who is feeling somewhat stifled by the status quo in Aristotle scholarship to take a good hard look at this book. Even if you disagree profoundly it will—and I think should—open your mind to some new possibilities.
-- Dirk Baltzly * Bryn Mawr Classical Review *
The inquiry is informed throughout with unsurpassed knowledge of the Platonic and Aristotelian texts and with analytical rigor that matches the best Aristotelian scholarship. This is a compelling study that deserves immediate attention from ancient philosophers who are willing to rethink these important questions.
-- John Bussanich * Notre Dame Philosophical Reviews *
