di·a·lec·tic (d   -l k t k)n. 1. The art or practice of arriving at the truth by the exchange of logical arguments. 2. a. The process especially associated with Hegel of arriving at the truth by stating a thesis, developing a contradictory antithesis, and combining and resolving them into a coherent synthesis. b. Hegel's critical method for the investigation of this process. 3. a. The Marxian process of change through the conflict of opposing forces, whereby a given contradiction is characterized by a primary and a secondary aspect, the secondary succumbing to the primary, which is then transformed into an aspect of a new contradiction. Often used in the plural with a singular or plural verb. b. The Marxian critique of this process. 4. dialectics (used with a sing. verb) A method of argument or exposition that systematically weighs contradictory facts or ideas with a view to the resolution of their real or apparent contradictions. 5. The contradiction between two conflicting forces viewed as the determining factor in their continuing interaction. [Middle English dialetik, from Old French dialetique, from Latin dialectica, logic, from Greek dialektik  (tekhn), (art) of debate, feminine of dialektikos, from dialektos, speech, conversation; see dialect.]di a·lecti·cal, dia·lectic adj.di a·lecti·cal·ly adv. |
dialectic
Noun
1. logical debate by question and answer to resolve differences between two views
2. the art of logical argument [Greek dialektikē (tekhnē) (the art) of argument]
dialectical adj
ThesaurusLegend: Synonyms Related Words Antonyms
| Noun | 1. | dialectic - any formal system of reasoning that arrives at the truth by the exchange of logical arguments philosophy - the rational investigation of questions about existence and knowledge and ethics |
| 2. | dialectic - a contradiction of ideas that serves as the determining factor in their interaction; "this situation created the inner dialectic of American history" contradiction - opposition between two conflicting forces or ideas | |
| Adj. | 1. | dialectic - of or relating to or employing dialectic; "the dialectical method" |
dialectic
How to thank TFD for its existence? Tell a friend about us, add a link to this page, add the site to iGoogle, or visit webmaster's page for free fun content.
| ?Page tools | ||
|---|---|---|
|