Gassendi's atomism in the light of modern science

Abstract

© 2017 University of Novi Sad. All Rights Reserved. The research presented in this paper is focused on the atomistic theory of P. Gassendi. Gassendi's atomism is discussed in terms of formation of modern idea of science, primarily in context of the new physical understanding of matter. Through the analysis of concepts which explain the basic characteristics of atoms and their function in the explanation of natural phenomena, the author explores the question of whether Gassendi's atomism essentialy has physical or metaphysical character. Based on the conducted research the author concludes that this theory does not have a metaphysical character.