Life and Lifeforms in Early Greek Atomism

Abstract What is Leucippus and Democritus’ theory of the beginning life? How, if at all, did Democritus distinguish different kinds living things? These questions are challenging in part because these Atomists claim that all beings – including plants have a share reason understanding. We answer by examining extant evidence concerning their views on embryology, soul respiration, sense perception, thereby giving an overview life lifeforms early Greek atomism. show, first, generation happens through combining miniature copies parents’ atomic structures. Second, we argue take respiration to mark life. Yet they do not consider nor being ensouled humans, animals, from each other. Finally, make little distinction between perception thought, too cannot sharply beings. conclude advocated less anthropocentric more holistic view cosmos.