ˈad.əˌmizəm, ˈatə- noun
( -s )
1. : a doctrine according to which either the physical universe or the physical and mental universe is composed of simple, indivisible, and minute particles or atoms: as
a. : the theory formulated in pre-Socratic times by Leucippus and Democritus who taught that all phenomena are to be explained by the incessant movement of atoms differing only in shape, order, and position
b. : one of the various modern philosophical theories treating atoms as composed either of sense elements or as matter of which the mind is made up — compare neutral monism , panpsychism , phenomenalism
2.
a. : atomic theory 3
b. : atomicity
3. : the psychological doctrine that perceptions, thoughts, and all mental processes are built up by the combination of simple elements
4.
a. : division of society into individual units or groups
the caste atomism of India
b. : a theory or doctrine holding that the individual is the only objective unit of analysis
c. : a tendency toward individualism ; especially : mutually opposed or antagonistic action of the members of a group or society