atomism

[ˈætəmɪzəm]

atomism Definition

the theory that all matter is composed of tiny discrete finite indivisible indestructible particles called atoms.

Using atomism: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "atomism" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

• Example

  Atomism was first proposed by the ancient Greek philosopher Democritus.

• Example

  The concept of atomism was later developed by John Dalton in the early 19th century.

• Example

  Atomism is a fundamental principle of modern physics and chemistry.

Phrases with atomism

• mechanical atomism

  a theory that explains chemical reactions as the result of the rearrangement of atoms

  Example

  Mechanical atomism was first proposed by the French chemist Antoine Lavoisier.

• psychological atomism

  a theory that explains complex mental phenomena as the result of simple mental elements

  Example

  Psychological atomism was first proposed by the British philosopher John Locke.

• ethical atomism

  a theory that moral concepts can be reduced to individual actions or states of mind

  Example

  Ethical atomism was first proposed by the Scottish philosopher David Hume.

Origins of atomism

from Greek 'atomos', meaning 'indivisible'

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Summary: atomism in Brief

'Atomism' [ˈætəmɪzəm] is a theory that all matter is composed of tiny, discrete, finite, indivisible, and indestructible particles called atoms. It was first proposed by the ancient Greek philosopher Democritus and later developed by John Dalton in the early 19th century. Atomism is a fundamental principle of modern physics and chemistry, and it has also been applied to other fields such as psychology and ethics.