With regard to this question modern physics takes a definite stand against the materialism of Democritus and for Plato and the Pythagoreans. The elementary particles are certainly not eternal and indestructible units of matter, they can actually be transformed into each other. ... The elementary particles in Plato's Timaeus are finally not substance but mathematical forms.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Modern physics rejects Democritus's materialism and aligns more with Plato by viewing particles as mathematical forms rather than eternal matter.
- In plain terms
- Physics now says particles are math not matter, which fits Plato better than Democritus.
- What can you take from it?
- Abstract structures can explain reality better than solid matter.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Is reality made of math or matter?
- Do old philosophies predict modern science?
Another view
Physics still debates whether forms or matter are fundamental.
More from Plato
The safest general characterization of the European philosophical tradition is that it consists of a series of footnotes to Plato.
Permalink to quote #77 Plato is the essential Buddha-seeker who appears again and again in each generation, moving onward and upward toward the 'one.' Aristotle is the eternal motorc…
Permalink to quote #79 Amicus Plato - amicus Aristoteles - magis amica veritas
Permalink to quote #76
Related quotes
I think that modern physics has definitely decided in favor of Plato. In fact the smallest units of matter are not physical objects in the ordinary sense; they…
Werner HeisenbergWerner Heisenberg quote #8 Light and matter are both single entities, and the apparent duality arises in the limitations of our language. It is not surprising that our language should be…
Werner HeisenbergWerner Heisenberg quote #2 In relating the circumstances which have led to my confinement within this refuge for the demented, I am aware that my present position will create a natural d…
H. P. LovecraftH. P. Lovecraft quote #3