Single Idea 17539

[catalogued under 26. Natural Theory / A. Speculations on Nature / 6. Early Matter Theories / f. Ancient elements]

Full Idea

If we replace Heraclitus's word 'fire' by the word 'energy' we can almost repeat his statements word for word from our modern point of view.

Gist of Idea

The sayings of Heraclitus are still correct, if we replace 'fire' with 'energy'

Source

report of Heraclitus (fragments/reports [c.500 BCE]) by Werner Heisenberg - Physics and Philosophy 04

Book Reference

Heisenberg,Werner: 'Physics and Philosophy' [Penguin 1989], p.51


A Reaction

My problem has always been that I have no idea what 'energy' is, so I'm none the wiser.

Related Ideas

Idea 15265 'Energy' is a quasi-substance invented as the bearer of change during interactions [Harré/Madden]

Idea 17540 Energy is that which moves, and is the substance from which everything is made [Heisenberg]