Single Idea 21814

[catalogued under 26. Natural Theory / A. Speculations on Nature / 6. Early Matter Theories / e. The One]

Full Idea

The problem endlessly debated is how, from such a unity as we have declared the One to be, does anything at all come into substantial existence, any multiplicity, dyad or number?

Gist of Idea

How can multiple existence arise from the unified One?

Source

Plotinus (The Enneads [c.245], 5.1.06)

Book Reference

Plotinus: 'The Enneads', ed/tr. Mackenna,Stephen [Penguin 1991], p.353


A Reaction

This was precisely Aristotle's objection to the One of Parmenides, and especially the problem of the source of movement (which Plotinus also notices).