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dialectic

Dialectic is a formal system of reasoning that arrives at the truth through the exchange of logical arguments.

Dialectic is a process of examining an issue using very careful steps. A "thesis," or argument, is offered, followed by the "antithesis," or counterargument. The goal is to extract the best points from each of these to form a "synthesis." This in turn is used as a new argument, followed by counterargument, and the process continues, hopefully getting closer and closer to the truth, or at least something everyone can agree upon.

DEFINITIONS OF: dialectic

1

n a contradiction of ideas that serves as the determining factor in their interaction

“this situation created the inner dialectic of American history”
Type of:
contradiction
opposition between two conflicting forces or ideas

n any formal system of reasoning that arrives at the truth by the exchange of logical arguments

Type of:
philosophy
the rational investigation of questions about existence and knowledge and ethics

adj of or relating to or employing dialectic

Synonyms:
dialectical
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