Twentieth- and twenty-first-century academic philosophy has largely lost sight of its ancient origin in a set of spiritual practices ranging from forms of dialogue, via meditative reflection, to theoretical contemplation.  These philosophical practices, as well as the philosophical discourses the different ancient schools developed in conjunction with them, aimed primarily to form, rather than only to inform, the philosophical student.The goal of the ancient philosophies was to cultivate a specific, constant attitude toward existence, by way of the rational comprehension of the nature of humanity and its place in the cosmos.

What is Ancient Philosophy?
Pierre Hadot

Background on Pierre Hadot

Practicing Virtue Engenders Gentleness

The practice of virtues assures a connection between the ecstatic and the everyday. Virtue expresses itself in a particular style of life and in a relationship with others that consists of mildness or gentleness. The secret of gentleness is to be found in a transformation of one’s whole being, a practice of virtue and contemplation that makes one present to Spirit while not excluding presence to other people, the world, and even the body.

Some Important Virtues:

• Justice
• Prudence
• Temperance
• Fortitude
• Honor

Plotinus or the Simplicity of Vision
Pierre Hadot

This lively philosophical portrait of Plotinus remains the preeminent introduction to him and his thought.

Plotinus
204-270 AD

. Wikipedia
. Internet Encyclopedia of Philosophy
. Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy

Plotinus was a major Greek-speaking philosopher of the ancient world, influential in Late Antiquity. He is one of the most influential philosophers in antiquity after Plato and Aristotle.

Born in Egypt, Plotinus later moved to Rome, where he lectured and wrote. He is regarded as the founder of Neoplatonism  (a term invented by historians of the 19th century ). In his philosophy there are three principles: the One, the Intellect, and the Soul.  Much of the biographical information about Plotinus comes from Porphyry, a student of Plotinus. In addition, Porphory edited the Enneads, the complete treatises of Plotinus.

Plotinus’ metaphysical writings have inspired centuries of Pagan, Christian, Islamic and Gnostic metaphysicians and mystics.

Pierre Hadot
1922-2010

. Internet Encyclopedia of Philosophy
. Wikipedia

Pierre Hadot was a French philosopher and historian of philosophy specializing in ancient philosophy, particularly Neoplatonism. Hadot is best known for his conception of ancient philosophy as a bios (Greek), or way of life. His work has been widely influential in classical studies and on thinkers, including Michel Foucault.

Books written by Pierre Hadot include:

• Plotinus or the Simplicity of Vision
• The Inner Citadel: The Meditations of Marcus Aurelius (Meditations of Marcus Aurelius)
• The Present Alone is Our Happiness, Second Edition: Conversations with Jeannie Carlier and Arnold I. Davidson (Cultural Memory in the Present)
• The Veil of Isis: An Essay on the History of the Idea of Nature
• What Is Ancient Philosophy?