Democritus sometimes does away with what appears to the…
“Democritus sometimes does away with what appears to the senses, and says that none of these appears according to truth but only according to opinion: the truth in real things is that there are atoms and void. 'By convention sweet', he says, 'by convention bitter, by convention hot, by convention cold, by convention colour: but in reality atoms and void.'”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Sensory experiences are subjective; true reality consists of atoms and void beyond perception.
In simple terms: Our senses deceive; reality is atoms and empty space.
Key Takeaway
Question assumptions about sensory truth.
Themes
philosophy
skepticism
metaphysics
Mood
thoughtful
inquisitive
Type
skeptical
philosophical
When to use this quote
- science education
- philosophy classes
- critical thinking debates
Key Concepts
atomism
empiricism
Questions to Reflect On
- What do we accept as true without proof?
- How do conventions shape our perception?
A Different Perspective
Sensory evidence may still be useful despite its limits.