Pythagoras Revived Mathematics and Philosophy in Late Antiquity [Paperback]

The Pythagorean idea that number is the key to understanding reality inspired philosophers in the fourth and fifth centuries to develop theories in physics and metaphysics using mathematical models. These theories were to become influential in medieval and early modern philosophy, yet until now, they have not received the serious attention they deserve. This book marks a breakthrough in our understanding of the subject by examining two themes in conjunction for the first time: the figure of Pythagoras as interpreted by the Neoplatonist philosophers of the period, and the use of mathematical ideas in physics and metaphysics.

Exemplary....Commendable in its balance, clarity, and judiciousness. --Ancient Philosophy

By carefully and lucidly analyzing the way Iamblichus appropriated Pythagorean mathematical ideas to give new direction to the Platonic movement, O'Meara offers us new evidence for the decisive role the philosopher Iamblichus played in the shaping of the Neoplatonic tradition....This work adds significantly to our understanding of the Neoplatonic tradition and is required reading for scholars in the field of late Antique philosophy. It is well written, and will reward the effort of the more general reader as well. --Religious Studies Review

Let me recommend this book not only to those whose research includes late Greek thought, but to all who are interested in the relationship of mathematics to either philosophy or science. This volume provides a fascinating glimpse into an often neglected aspect of Greek philosophy and science. --Review of Metaphysics