The Self in Historical Light--Iamblichus versus Porphyry

[M Winther]

"The Self in Historical Light--Iamblichus versus Porphyry"

Abstract: The article investigates the Neoplatonic Self notion. In the
historical record the ideal of personality and the psychological notion
of Self have taken many forms. Also the modern ideals of Self are
discussed and criticized, such as the 'puer aeternus' (eternal youth)
and the 'primal' or 'uroboric' Self. The author argues that Carl Jung's
Self archetype is one-sidedly immanent--there is also a transcendental
aspect of Self. In the heated debate between Porphyry and Iamblichus,
both were right in their own way.

Keywords: Plotinus, Neoplatonism, primary narcissism, grandiose self,
ego-Self axis, Erich Neumann, Michael Fordham, psychoanalysis, puer
aeternus, Romantic era.

Read the article here:
http://www.two-paths.com/iamblichus.htm
(http://mlwi.magix.net/iamblichus.htm)

Mats Winther


======================================= MODERATOR'S COMMENT:
Fascinating article! -Baird