Atomism
noun
The belief that everything is made up of small, separate parts or atoms.
After studying particle physics, he concluded that atomism accurately described reality.

Often appears as...
- theory of atomism
- atomism in philosophy
Usage tips
Formal
Academic
noun
The belief in autonomous individuals or entities rather than interconnected systems.
The sociologist criticized the atomism in the examined community, arguing that it ignored the interdependency of individuals.

Often appears as...
- social atomism
- atomism in sociology
Usage tips
Formal
Academic
noun
A method of analysis that breaks complex systems down into simpler, distinct parts.
His atomism approach led to a better understanding of the solar system's structure.

Often appears as...
- atomistic analysis
- atomism in science
Usage tips
Formal
Academic
noun
The belief that everything is made up of small, separate parts or atoms.
After studying particle physics, he concluded that atomism accurately described reality.

Often appears as...
- theory of atomism
- atomism in philosophy
Usage tips
Formal
Academic
noun
The belief in autonomous individuals or entities rather than interconnected systems.
The sociologist criticized the atomism in the examined community, arguing that it ignored the interdependency of individuals.

Often appears as...
- social atomism
- atomism in sociology
Usage tips
Formal
Academic
noun
A method of analysis that breaks complex systems down into simpler, distinct parts.
His atomism approach led to a better understanding of the solar system's structure.

Often appears as...
- atomistic analysis
- atomism in science
Usage tips
Formal
Academic
Definition 1 of 3

Physical Reality
Atomism often refers to physical objects being built from small units.

He explained atomism by comparing it to a LEGO model.
Ancient Roots
Atomism has a long history, originally proposed by ancient philosophers.

Democritus was an early advocate for atomism.
Not Always Literal
Atomism can be metaphorical, not just about literal atoms.

He used atomism to discuss ideas, not just matter.
Video examples
The 2,400-year search...
Whereas Democritus's atomism had been purely theoretical, Dalton showed that common substances always broke down into the same elements in the same proportions. He concluded that the various compounds were combinations of atoms of different elements,
Video examples
The 2,400-year search...
Whereas Democritus's atomism had been purely theoretical, Dalton showed that common substances always broke down into the same elements in the same proportions. He concluded that the various compounds were combinations of atoms of different elements,
Example 1 of 1
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