deviations from constancy of the clausius-mossotti function, c[subscript m], with changes in density and temperature are considered on the basis of a one-dimensional oscillator model of the atom in which the valence electrons are assumed restricted by infinite potentials, but interact with all others in the medium through dipolar forces. the density-dependence of c[subscript m] is qualitatively in agreement with experiment, but the temperature-dependence is negligible as the excited states of an oscillator do not represent those of real atoms. in addition, the model does not permit the existence of the ionized state of the atom. the analysis here suggest a more promising, threedimensional model which admits of realistic atomic potentials, dipolar interaction based on continuous dielectric surroundings and repulsive potentials which ensure the existence of delocalized electronic states with consequent screening of the dipolar forces.