atomistiska

Atomistiska, or atomistic, is an adjective used to describe atomism—the view that matter consists of small, indivisible units called atoms and of empty space. The term, from the Greek atomos meaning indivisible, is used across disciplines to denote theories that explain phenomena in terms of their fundamental constituents.

Atomism originated in ancient Greece with Leucippus and Democritus and was developed by Epicurus and Lucretius. They proposed that all substances arise from combinations of atoms in the void, differing in shape, size, and motion. In modern science, atomic theory was revived by Dalton and refined through discoveries in chemistry and physics, including subatomic particles and quantum mechanics.

In atomistiska approaches, macro-level properties are explained by micro-level constituents and their interactions. Atomic and molecular models underpin chemistry, materials science, and molecular biology, while quantum theory provides the most accurate description of subatomic behavior. Some philosophers and scientists emphasize atomistic explanations, while others argue for holistic or emergent perspectives.

Today the term is used to characterize reductionist methodologies as well as debates about reductionism versus holism. Critics contend that focusing exclusively on parts may overlook context and emergent properties. The atomistic view remains a foundational, though evolving, framework in science and philosophy.