corpuscle
Quick Summary
Corpuscular philosophy is a philosophical approach that seeks to explain natural phenomena by focusing on the characteristics of minute particles of matter, such as their motion, shape, and position. This contrasts with other philosophical views, like Aristotle's, which considered matter as a fundamental substance that underlies changes in form and quality.12
A related concept is the corpuscular theory of light, which posits that light is composed of material particles emitted from luminous bodies. This idea is distinct from modern atomic theories, which have evolved significantly since early philosophical discussions.34
Ask Britannica AI about this topic
Britannica doesn't have a full article on this topic, so we've curated a list of our relevant coverage.
atomismAtoms as lumpish corpusclesAs corpuscles (minute particles), atoms can either be endowed with intrinsic qualities or be inherently qualityless.
Read MoreAs corpuscles (minute particles), atoms can either be endowed with intrinsic qualities or be inherently qualityless.
Read More- atomismThe existence of the void
…of the 19th century, the corpuscular theory of light in its turn was abandoned in favour of the wave theory, the case for the existence of the void had to be reopened, for the proponents of the wave theory did not think in terms of action at a distance; the…
Read More…of the 19th century, the corpuscular theory of light in its turn was abandoned in favour of the wave theory, the case for the existence of the void had to be reopened, for the proponents of the wave theory did not think in terms of action at a distance; the…
Read More