Parmenides in Apophatic Philosophy

By Michael M. Nikoletseas

Read the most important book on apophatic Theology ever written.

Book Content and Thesis
The book presents a novel thesis, tracing the roots of apophatic theology, as seen in Pseudo-Dionysius the Areopagite's De Mystica Theologia, back to Parmenides' work. It also explores the concept of the ineffable in Greek philosophy, suggesting a deep connection between metaphysical ideas and theological thought.

The book's central thesis is that the roots of apophatic theology, as articulated by Pseudo-Dionysius, can be traced back to Parmenides' philosophical poem. Nikoletseas presents a novel argument that Parmenides' exploration of the ineffable or unknowable nature of true reality parallels the apophatic method of describing the divine. This connection is explored through an analysis of Parmenides' peri physeos, which challenges traditional ontological interpretations and positions the poem as an epistemological essay on method in natural science, as suggested by Nikoletseas' other works on Parmenides.

A secondary theme of the book is the concept of the ineffable in Greek philosophy, providing a broader context for understanding how ancient Greek thought might have shaped theological traditions. The book examines how Parmenides' metaphysical ideas, such as the unity and unchanging nature of being, resonate with the apophatic emphasis on the transcendence and unknowability of God. This interdisciplinary approach is consistent with Nikoletseas' background, which includes studies in philosophy, comparative literature, psychology, and psychobiology, as well as his teaching roles at institutions like the University of Wisconsin and the Rutgers University.

Reception
The book is listed on academic platforms like PhilPapers and held in libraries like Harvard, Princeton and Oxford, suggesting recognition, but direct reviews are scarce, possibly due to its specialized audience. Two reviews on Amazon are highly praising, while at Goodreads it has received excellent ratings.

Comparative Analysis with Related Works
Nikoletseas' other works, such as Parmenides: The World as Modus Cogitandi and The Modus Cogitandi of Heraclitus, indicate a thematic continuity in exploring epistemological and metaphysical themes in ancient Greek philosophy.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 149753240X
• ISBN13: 9781497532403
• Release Date: June 2014
• Publisher: Createspace Independent Publishing Platform
• Length: 156 Pages
• Weight: 0.48 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.3" x 6.0" x 9.0"