Due to the influence of neoplatonists, much of Western European philosophy has been characterized as what?

The influence of neoplatonists on Western European philosophy primarily emphasizes the importance of rational thought, metaphysical concepts, and the quest for higher knowledge. Neoplatonism posits that reality consists of a single source or principle from which everything emanates, aligning with rationalist thought that prioritizes reason as the primary means of acquiring knowledge.

Rationalism, closely associated with thinkers like Descartes and Spinoza, asserts that reality can be understood through reason and logical deduction, rather than solely through empirical observation. Neoplatonists contributed to this by integrating elements of idealism and emphasizing a structured understanding of the universe that invites philosophical inquiry through rational means.

While other philosophical orientations, such as monism, existentialism, and literalism, have their own merits and contexts, the philosophical landscape heavily shaped by neoplatonism aligns most closely with the rationalist movement due to its focus on the use of reason and intellectualism to explore the nature of existence and truth.