Western materialism began with Leucippus and Democritus in 5th century BCE. Democritus proposed atoms in empty space interacting by impact or hooking. Soul consisted of smooth atoms, perceptions caused by soul atom motions
Materialism views all facts as causally dependent on physical processes. Matter is fundamental substance from which everything emerges. Materialism rejects supernatural metaphysics and supernatural explanations. Emphasizes scientific approach and empirical evidence
In philosophy, idealism views reality as conceptual rather than material. Subjective idealism asserts that only consciousness and its contents are real. Divine idealism sees the world as manifestations of a single God's mind. Ontological idealism argues that the material world is made of ideas. Epistemological idealism suggests that mind is the only tool for understanding reality
Charvaka is an ancient Indian materialist school, also known as Lokayata. Traditionally attributed to Brihaspati, but some scholars dispute this. Developed during Hindu reformation period in first millennium BCE. Primary texts are lost, but teachings found in shastras, sutras, and epics
Materialism asserts that matter is the fundamental substance in nature. Mind and consciousness are derived from physical processes. Materialism is distinct from idealism, which prioritizes consciousness. Materialism is closely linked to physicalism, which views all existence as physical
Born in 1588 in Malmesbury, England, Hobbes studied at Oxford. Worked as tutor to Cavendish family, gaining access to intellectual resources. Published first notable works around 1640, including Elements of Law and De Cive. Spent decade in exile in Paris, returning in 1651. Died in 1679 at Cavendish family home