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dialectic

Dialectic (noun) – Meaning, Examples & Etymology

noun

IPA:

/ˌdʌɪəˈlɛktɪk/

What does dialectic mean?

A method of reasoning or discussion in which opposing ideas or arguments are evaluated in order to arrive at a higher level of understanding or truth.
"The professor used the dialectic method to guide the class discussion."

Detailed Meaning of Dialectic

It is characterized by a process of logical reasoning and critical thinking in which arguments and counterarguments are evaluated and synthesized in order to arrive at a deeper understanding of a subject. The term is often associated with the Socratic method of questioning and is also used in the study of logic and philosophy. An example of a sentence using the word dialectic would be "The class discussed the topic using the dialectic method, evaluating different arguments and counterarguments to reach a better understanding."

Example Sentences for Dialectic

1. The class on philosophy introduced me to the concept of dialectic as a form of reasoning.
2. Hegelian dialectic is often summarized by the triadic formula: thesis, antithesis, and synthesis.
3. The Socratic dialectic emphasizes the importance of questioning and critical thinking in the pursuit of truth.
4. The dialectic between conservation and development is an ongoing debate in environmental policy.
5. Through dialectic, two people with opposing views engage in reasoned arguments to arrive at a mutual understanding.
6. The novel captured the dialectic between tradition and modernity in the rapidly changing society.

Origin and Etymology of Dialectic

The noun 'dialectic' has its roots in ancient Greek philosophy. It is derived from the Greek word 'dialektikē,' which comes from 'dialegesthai,' a term that combines 'dia,' meaning 'through' or 'across,' with 'legein,' meaning 'to speak' or 'to talk.' In the context of ancient Greek philosophy, 'dialectic' referred to the art of argument and discussion, specifically the practice of reasoning through dialogue. Philosophers like Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle used dialectic as a method to explore and evaluate opposing ideas or arguments in order to attain a deeper level of understanding or truth. Over time, this philosophical approach influenced various intellectual traditions and made its way into English as 'dialectic.' Thus, the etymology of 'dialectic' underscores its historical association with the method of reasoning and discussion through the examination of contrasting viewpoints to reach a higher level of understanding or truth.

Quiz Question - Test Your Understanding

Find the correct meaning of the noun dialectic:

acceptance

agreement

conformity

reasoning

Try Again!

Correct!

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More Usage Examples of Dialectic

1. His understanding of dialectic was shaped by studying both Eastern and Western philosophies.
2. The book provides a deep insight into the dialectic of love and hate throughout history.
3. The teacher encouraged the students to use dialectic methods in their group discussions to stimulate critical thinking.
4. Marxist dialectic considers historical changes as a result of contradictions and conflicts within society.
5. The dialectic process is important in therapy to help clients reconcile conflicting feelings and thoughts.
6. Understanding the dialectic between freedom and responsibility is essential for creating a just society.
7. The dialectic between tradition and progress shapes our society.
8. Philosophers engage in dialectic to explore complex concepts.
9. Dialectic thinking fosters intellectual growth and insight.
10. The dialectic of nature versus nurture influences human behavior.
11. Political debates often employ a dialectic of opposing ideologies.
12. Dialectic discussions promote critical thinking skills.
13. The dialectic of good versus evil is a timeless theme in literature.
14. In academia, dialectic discourse is valued for its depth.
15. Dialectic reasoning can lead to innovative problem-solving.
16. The dialectic between science and ethics is ongoing.
17. Socratic dialogues exemplify the art of dialectic.
18. Dialectic approaches enhance group decision-making.
19. Dialectic interactions can reveal common ground.
20. The dialectic of art and commerce influences the creative industry.
21. Philosophers use dialectic to explore existential questions.
22. Dialectic analysis deepens our understanding of history.
23. Dialectic thought encourages open-mindedness and growth.
24. In ethics, dialectic reasoning seeks moral clarity.
25. Dialectic processes facilitate conflict resolution.
26. The dialectic of individual rights versus societal interests is complex.