Single Idea 19374

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

Full Idea

Micrographers observe qualities of larger things found in smaller things. And if this proceeds to infinity - which is possible since the continuum is divisible to infinity - any atom will be an infinite species, and there will be worlds within worlds.

Gist of Idea

Microscopes and the continuum suggest that matter is endlessly divisible

Source

Gottfried Leibniz (works [1690], A VI ii 241)

Book Reference

Arthur, Richard T.W.: 'Leibniz' [Polity 2014], p.58


A Reaction

[a work of the 1670s] The microscope had a huge impact on Leibniz, much more than the telescope.