Single Idea 14035

[catalogued under 26. Natural Theory / A. Speculations on Nature / 6. Early Matter Theories / g. Atomism]

Full Idea

There are not even any qualities in atoms, except shape and size and weight; their colour changes according to the arrangement of the atoms.

Gist of Idea

Atoms just have shape, size and weight; colour results from their arrangement

Source

Epicurus (Letter to Herodotus [c.293 BCE], 44 schol)

Book Reference

Epicurus: 'The Epicurus Reader', ed/tr. Inwood,B. /Gerson,L. [Hackett 1994], p.8


A Reaction

[This is quoted by a 'scholiast' - an early writer quoting from Epicurus's '12 Basic Principles'] He appears to have got this one wrong, as it is evidently the type of atom, as well as the arrangement, which contributes to the colour.

Related Idea

Idea 14037 Atoms only have shape, weight and size, and the properties which accompany shape [Epicurus]