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The same objections lie against the doctrine of the world…

“The same objections lie against the doctrine of the world having originated from atoms. For on that doctrine one atom when combining with another must, as it is not made up of parts, enter into the combination with its whole extent, and as thus no increase of bulk takes place we do not get beyond…” quote by Adi Shankaracarya
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““The same objections lie against the doctrine of the world having originated from atoms. For on that doctrine one atom when combining with another must, as it is not made up of parts, enter into the combination with its whole extent, and as thus no increase of bulk takes place we do not get beyond the first atom If, on the other hand, you maintain that the atom enters into the combination with a part only, you offend against the assumption of the atoms having no parts. Brahma-sûtras, 2e Adhyâya, 1er Pâda, sûtra 29””

Adi Shankaracarya

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Atomism argues that atoms are indivisible wholes; assuming they have parts leads to logical contradictions.

In simple terms: Atoms are whole, not part‑based.

Key Takeaway

Accept atoms as indivisible units.

Themes

philosophy atomism logic

Mood

analytical thoughtful

Type

academic philosophical

When to use this quote

  • education
  • scientific debate
  • philosophical inquiry
  • history of science

Key Concepts

metaphysics ancient science

Questions to Reflect On

  • What are the implications of indivisible atoms?
  • How does this affect our view of matter?
A Different Perspective

Modern physics shows sub‑atomic particles, challenging classical atomism.

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