The Continuous and the Discrete: Ancient Physical Theories from a Contemporary Perspective | National Humanities Center

Work of the Fellows: Monographs

The Continuous and the Discrete: Ancient Physical Theories from a Contemporary Perspective

By Michael J. White (NHC Fellow, 1988–89)

Mathematics; Ancient Greek Philosophy; History of Science

Oxford, UK: Clarendon Press, 1992

From the publisher’s description:

This book presents a detailed analysis of three ancient models of spatial magnitude, time, and local motion. The Aristotelian model is presented as an application of the ancient, geometrically orthodox conception of extension to the physical world. The other two models, which represent departures from mathematical orthodoxy, are a "quantum" model of spatial magnitude, and a Stoic model, according to which limit entities such as points, edges, and surfaces do not exist in (physical) reality. The book is unique in its discussion of these ancient models within the context of later philosophical, scientific, and mathematical developments.

Subjects
Philosophy / History / Mathematics / Ancient Greek Philosophy / History of Science /

White, Michael J. (NHC Fellow, 1988–89). The Continuous and the Discrete: Ancient Physical Theories from a Contemporary Perspective. Oxford, UK: Clarendon Press, 1992.