Physics

Epicureanism boasts an extensive and impressive array of observations in the field of physics, including atomic theory, atomic motion, gravity, magnetism, and numerous other topics. In many respects, the first significant forward steps beyond Epicurean physics were only made in the Renaissance, nearly two millennia after the life of Epicurus himself.

Considering the relatively meager Epicurean texts extant (pending, at this time, more extensive deciphering of papyri from Herculaneum), a significant portion of what we do have delves on matters pertaining to physics. Epicurean physics, naturally, has been largely superceded by more recent discoveries and developments in the field.

The raison-d'etre of Epicurean physics, however, by Epicurus' own admission, is that it dispels irrational fears and quenches the vain desire for immortality. That being the case, at least in terms of the application of physics in the field of ethics, the Epicurean message is perennial.