Plotinus, «Tolma», and the Descent of Being

This work deals with the metaphysical scheme of Plotinus (204-270 A.D.), examining those aspects of his philosophical outlook reflecting a negative attitude toward the emergence of being. The study focuses specifically upon his use of the substantivetolma, its verbal and adjectival forms, and related terminology designating the will toward separate existence which is instrumental in the emanation of being from the One. But because thetolmaconnotes an illegitimate desire for «otherness» and autonomy, it also provides an interesting referent which enables us to trace pessimistic and dualistic strains running through theEnneads.