Qi and the Atom: A Comparison of the Concept of Matter in Chinese and Western Philosophy

Abstract

The concept of matter is the cornerstone of philosophical materialism. In each of the nations and cultures of the world it has undergone a long historical process of change and development. To study these concepts of matter from a comparative perspective will undoubtedly help to clarify the general laws governing human philosophical thinking and their various characteristics in the many cultural traditions of the peoples of the world.