Question

Select the statement that reflects a central belief of the Atomists.

a.) Atomists would argue that a duck is a duck because of the unique way its atoms are configured.

b.) Atomists would argue that a duck is a duck because of the unique number of atoms of which it is constructed.

c.) Atomists would argue that a duck is a duck because of the unique size of its atoms, which differentiate it from a non-duck.

d.) Atomists would argue that a duck is a duck because of the substance of which its atoms are made.

Answer 1

Answer - c. Atomists would argue that a duck is a duck because of the unique size of its atoms, which differentiate it from a non-duck.

Atomism is the view that the physical world is made up of small elements that are indivisible in nature. In other words, these elements or atoms are the constituents of all the complex substances.

Atomists argue that each being, object, or substance is made up of atoms of unique size and shapes. They would argue that a duck is a duck because of the unique size and shape of its atoms. This is what differentiates it from a non-duck.

Other options are incorrect because the atomic configuration (option A) and the number of atoms (option B) help in determining the physical state of the substance. The statement that reflects the central belief of the atomists would be option c because the unique size and shape of atoms is what differentiates one object or being from the other. Atomists argue that atoms are indivisible. They cannot be further divided. Hence, option d is wrong because atoms are not made of anything. They exist independently.