The platonic pair “limit – infinitude” according to the neo-platonist Damascius

Abstract

Damascius maintains that according to the Platonic text the cause and principle of Intelligence is the Limit, whereas that of Pleasure is Infinitude. By using the logical principle of analogy, he points out that any relationship which exists between causes-principles also exists between their products. By arguing regarding the content of Limit and Infinitude Damascius introduces an ontological monism. Therefore his explanations are based on the favourite distinction of the Neoplatonic Philosophers between Unity and Dyad and, thereby, between Unity and Plurality. Furthermore, he develops a syllogism on the basis of analogies which exist among the causes in order to make a reliable presentation of the priorities. He pursues another syllogism dealing with the meaning of production which means that he excludes its mechanistic operation in a quest spread upon theories which support the absolute metaphysical foundation of the physical world. Damascius proposes a common methodology and one theory as everything which exists is created or is going to be created. In his view ontology includes teleology as an inherent element. Despite his attempt to interpret the metaphysical world rationally, he remains attached to the principles of negativismus.