Date of Graduation
8-2025
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Arts in Philosophy (MA)
Degree Level
Graduate
Department
Philosophy
Advisor/Mentor
Attwood, Ashley
Committee Member
Barrett, David
Second Committee Member
Funkhouser, Eric
Keywords
De Rerum Natura; Epicurus; finite pluralism; Letter to Herodotus; Lucretius; minima
Abstract
In this paper, I examine and evaluate the doctrinal background that warranted the assertion of finite pluralism, or the teaching that there are a finite number of possible atomic shapes, in Epicurean physics. The examination centers on the Epicurean doctrine of minima, or smallest parts or measures of magnitude, reconstructing and evaluating the arguments given by Epicurus in the Letter to Herodotus and by Lucretius in the De Rerum Natura. I also examine the doctrine of limitation of actual atomic sizes and auxiliary arguments by Lucretius which make use of unique metaphors and terminology. I identify four main problem areas in the combined Epicurean-Lucretian account, evaluate the effect of those problem areas on the viability of the finite pluralist doctrine, and give possible Epicurean responses to the objections. I identify two general areas which the doctrine of minima does not address in either Epicurus’ or Lucretius’ work, explore possible answers to the questions, and evaluate their implications. I ultimately conclude that the potential failure of the Epicurean account of minima and/or actual atomic sizes does not necessitate the abandonment of a finite pluralist position, though it may preclude arrival at the finite pluralist conclusion by means of the Epicurean argumentative process.
Citation
Raymond, I. (2025). The Doctrinal Justification of Finite Pluralism in Epicurean Physics. Graduate Theses and Dissertations Retrieved from https://scholarworks.uark.edu/etd/5956
