LessonsThe Indivisible Atom: Arguments, Infinite Division and ObjectionsQuiz

Actual division separates a thing into parts. Imagined division considers its parts mentally, while postulated division assigns boundaries as a supposition without performing a cut.

An indivisible-atom thesis may deny further division in all these senses. A continuity thesis can allow further conceived or potential subdivision without affirming already-existing discrete atoms.

Consequently, “Can this be physically split?” and “Can two regions still be conceptually distinguished?” are not identical questions.

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Actual, imagined and postulated division

The Indivisible Atom: Arguments, Infinite Division and Objections

Actual division separates a thing into parts. Imagined division considers its parts mentally, while postulated division assigns boundaries as a supposition without performing a cut.

An indivisible-atom thesis may deny further division in all these senses. A continuity thesis can allow further conceived or potential subdivision without affirming already-existing discrete atoms.

Consequently, “Can this be physically split?” and “Can two regions still be conceptually distinguished?” are not identical questions.