According to atomists, what is the composition of the world?

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Prepare for ASU's PHI101 Introduction to Philosophy Test. Engage with flashcards and multiple-choice questions, each with hints and detailed explanations. Ace your exam with confidence!

The concept of atomism, originating from ancient philosophers like Leucippus and Democritus, posits that everything in the universe is composed of tiny, indivisible particles known as atoms. These atoms are the fundamental building blocks of all matter and are characterized by their permanence and indivisibility. According to atomists, these particles combine in various ways to form all observable substances and phenomena.

The idea of tiny indivisible particles explains the physical composition of the world, suggesting that what we perceive as complex objects or materials are ultimately made up of these simple, fundamental units. This perspective laid the groundwork for modern scientific understanding of matter and has influenced the fields of physics and chemistry extensively.

In contrast, while observable entities and spiritual elements may relate to certain philosophical or metaphysical viewpoints, they do not encapsulate the atomist view of the composition of reality. Additionally, describing the world as a vast emptiness does not accurately reflect the atomist belief in the existence of these individual particles making up all matter. Thus, the notion that the world is composed of tiny indivisible particles aligns perfectly with the core tenets of atomism.

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