... whirlings, collisions, and aggregations if these atoms, which individually possess only shape, size and weight (Epicurus & Epicurean Philosophy). In biology, Epicurus anticipated the modern doctrine of natural selection. He postulated that natural forces give rise to organisms of different types and that only the types able to support and propagate themselves have survived. Epicurean psychology is thoroughly materialistic. It holds that sensations are caused by continuous stream of files or "idols" cast off by bodies and impinging on the senses. All sensations are believed to be absolutely reliable; error arises only when sensation is improperly interpreted. The soul is regarded as being composed of fine particles distributed throughout the body. The dissolution of the body in death, Epicurus taught, leads to the dissolution of the soul, which cannot exist apart from the body; and thus no afterlife is possible. Since death means total extinction, it has no meaning either to the ...

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