Atomism is in essence an analytical doctrine. It regards observable forms in nature not as intrinsic wholes but as aggregates. In contrast to holistic theories, which explain the parts in terms of qualities displayed by the whole, atomism explains the observable properties of the whole by those of its components and of their configurations.
Empedocles had suggested an atomism with qualitatively different atoms, based upon the doctrine of the four elements. Aristotle adopted the latter doctrine but without its atomistic suggestion. Certain Alexandrian commentators on the works of Aristotle, however, viz. Alexander of Aphrodisias, Themistius (4th), and John Philoponus (6th century AD), combined the Aristotelian theory of chemical reactions with atomistic conceptions.
Infinitesimals have a long and colorful history. They make an early appearance in the mathematics of the Greek atomist philosopher Democritus (Ca 450 BC), only to be banished by the mathematician Eudoxus (Ca 350 BC). Taking the obscure form of "indivisibles," they reappear in the mathematics of the late middle ages.

 

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