atomism

[ at-uh-miz-uhm ]

noun

1. Also called atomic theory. Philosophy. the theory that minute, discrete, finite, and indivisible elements are the ultimate constituents of all matter.
2. Psychology. a method or theory that reduces all psychological phenomena to simple elements.

atomism

/ ˈætəˌmɪzəm /

noun

1. an ancient philosophical theory, developed by Democritus and expounded by Lucretius, that the ultimate constituents of the universe are atoms See atom
2. 1. any of a number of theories that hold that some objects or phenomena can be explained as constructed out of a small number of distinct types of simple indivisible entities
   2. any theory that holds that an understanding of the parts is logically prior to an understanding of the whole Compare holism
3. psychol the theory that experiences and mental states are composed of elementary units

Derived Forms

• ˌatomˈistically, adverb
• ˈatomist, nounadjective
• ˌatomˈistic, adjective

Other Words From

• atom·ist noun
• atom·istic atom·isti·cal adjective
• atom·isti·cal·ly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of atomism¹

First recorded in 1670–80

Example Sentences

But in this instance the facts do not take us into atomism and anarchy.

From Project Gutenberg

It is said to be ethical atomism, pulverizing the order and dignity of morals.

From Project Gutenberg

Social atomism or individualism, therefore, implied a total misconception of what Mill calls the 'evolution of humanity.'

From Project Gutenberg

Epicurus, therefore, adopted the atomism of Democritus en bloc, or with trifling modifications.

From Project Gutenberg

Therefore he searched the past, and soon found what he wanted in the atomism of Democritus.

From Project Gutenberg