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chain of being
(redirected from Great chain of being)

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chain of being

In metaphysics, an ancient principle with many variations, originating in neo-Platonism. Essentially, the principle asserts the unity, continuity, and perfection of the universe. The principle assumes that the universe is a hierarchy of different grades of beings – the higher grades of beings possessing more reality or perfection than the lower ones. At the top of the hierarchy is the most perfect being of all – God – or, sometimes, the most perfect creature – Man.

One version of the principle is that for the universe to be as perfect as possible, it must contain the greatest possible diversity in the greatest possible profusion compatible with the laws of nature. Another version is that nothing can remain a real but unactualized possibility throughout all time.



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? Mentioned in ? References in periodicals archive
 
In traditional societies, individuals were identified relationally by their place in the Great Chain of Being, a hierarchically organized structure linking all in society with one another and ultimately with God.
How we live now by Sargent, Mark / Commonweal
Referring to the medieval conception of the Great Chain of Being, she describes fantastic motifs both as expressions of God's plenitude and representations of demonic forces; Renaissance viewers would have regarded both as present in the created world.
Art, Liturgy, and Legend in Renaissance Toledo: the Mendoza and the ... by Mann, Richard G. / Renaissance Quarterly
The creatures who inhabit their enchanted isle, from the earth-bound evil Caliban to the spirit Ariel, represent polarities on the great chain of being and reflect widespread acceptance of supernatural phenomena.
The Tempest by Burns, Mary M. / The Horn Book Magazine
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