Overview
This lecture explores the life and philosophy of Democritus, focusing on his atomic theory, determinism, and ethical views, as well as his lasting influence on Western thought.
Democritus: Background and Legacy
- Democritus was regarded by Edward Zeller as the most knowledgeable and logical pre-Socratic philosopher.
- Most of what we know about Democritus comes from secondary sources, especially Aristotle.
- Democritus and his teacher Leucippus are often linked, though some doubt Leucippus’s existence.
- Democritus was born around 460 BCE in Thrace and became well-known around 420 BCE.
- He authored about seventy works on various topics, though only fragments survive.
Atomic Theory of Matter
- Democritus and Leucippus founded the atomist school to reconcile monism and pluralism.
- They believed in uncompromising determinism, denying the possibility of chance.
- The universe consists of two elements: atoms (eternal, impenetrable, incompressible particles) and the void (empty space).
- Atoms differ in shape and are constantly in motion, forming vortices and all phenomena in the universe.
- Phenomena are temporary; only atoms are eternal.
- The void is real, providing space for atoms to move, without direction (no up or down).
Sensation and Perception
- Sensation arises from external atoms interacting with atoms in our sensory organs.
- Qualities like taste, temperature, and color are conventions; truly, only atoms and the void exist.
Determinism and Absence of Purpose
- All events follow from necessity; chance is rejected.
- Atomists sought to explain reality without invoking purpose or final causes.
- The universe is eternal and purposeless, lacking mindful direction.
Ethics and Pleasure
- Democritus advocated for a life aimed at pleasure and cheerfulness, pursued moderately.
- He influenced Epicurus in seeking tranquility, freedom from fear, and avoiding superstition.
- Violence and excessive passion are rejected; friendships are valued more than physical pleasures.
Influence and Legacy
- Atomist ideas were mechanistic and influential for later thinkers, though not empirically based.
- Their influence extended from Aristotle and Epicurus to Renaissance philosophers like Montaigne and Spinoza.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Atom — Indivisible, eternal particle of matter, fundamental to all reality.
- Void — Infinite empty space in which atoms move.
- Determinism — The idea that all events occur from necessity, not by chance.
- Monism — Philosophical view that all things originate from a single principle.
- Pluralism — View that reality consists of multiple substances or principles.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review the fragments attributed to Democritus for further insight into his theories.
- Compare Democritus’s atomic theory with later developments in philosophy and science.