Philippe Hoffmann

Philippe Hoffmann, a specialist in ancient philosophy and Neoplatonism in particular, is notable for his fundamental contributions to the understanding of philosophical traditions in Late Antiquity. His career as an academic reflects a relentless quest for knowledge and a strong commitment to the transmission of learning that has profoundly influenced the academic world.

He is a former student of École normale supérieure and agrégé in classical literature, as well as a graduate of the Sorbonne. He trained under great masters such as Pierre Aubenque, Pierre Hadot, and Jean Trouillard, and has conducted research on the transmission and interpretation of ancient philosophical texts. His doctorate in Greek studies and his research leadership bear witness to the scope of his work, which has enriched the understanding of ancient philosophy and inspired a new generation to explore the legacy of Antiquity.

As Academic Director Emeritus at École pratique des hautes études (EPHE), he has held prominent positions in French academic research and led prestigious institutions such as the Religious Studies Section at the EPHE and the Laboratory for the Study of Monotheisms. His work has significantly advanced the understanding of ancient philosophical traditions, especially Neoplatonism, in contemporary research.

Mr. Hoffman is a prolific author and has published major works on manuscript and doctrinal traditions in ancient Greek philosophy and in the period following Alexander the Great, shedding light on the richness of ancient texts and the complexity of their transmission. His innovative approach, which combines the critical study of texts with philosophical analysis, has revealed new perspectives on the legacy of thought in Antiquity.

Université Laval is proud to award an honorary doctorate in philosophy to Philippe Hoffmann in recognition of this great thinker’s remarkable scholarship, keen intellect, and exemplary commitment to research, the transmission of knowledge, and the understanding of the ancient world.