This paper analyzes views of the Stoic philosopher Posidonius (1st century BC) in the light of modern Chemistry. I propose that Posidonius' account on generation and destruction bears noteworthy similarities to the scientific notions of chemical elements, chemical species, nuclear reactions, and the law of conservation of mass. I find that his views compare favorably also with our understanding of chemical change at solid surfaces. Provided his thought is correctly placed in the cultural context of his day, I argue that Posidonius deserves a previously un-acknowledged consideration in the historical background of modern Chemistry. Keywords Posidonius - Stoic philosophy - Chemical element - Chemical species - Chemical change
...MoreDescription A comparison of the 1st century, B.C., Stoic philosopher with modern chemical notions.
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