Full Idea
If a priori atomism is a true theory of the world, then all properties are derivative from ultimate properties.
Gist of Idea
If atomism is true, then all properties derive from ultimate properties
Source
George Molnar (Powers [1998], 1.4.1)
Book Reference
Molnar,George: 'Powers: a study in metaphysics', ed/tr. Mumford,Stephen [OUP 2003], p.30
A Reaction
Presumably there is a physicalist metaphysic underlying this, which means that even abstract properties derive ultimately from these physical atoms. Unless we want to postulate logical atoms, or monads, or some such weird thing.