dialectic

noun di·a·lec·tic \ˌdī-ə-ˈlek-tik\

philosophy : a method of examining and discussing opposing ideas in order to find the truth

Full Definition of DIALECTIC

: logic 1a(1)

a : discussion and reasoning by dialogue as a method of intellectual investigation; specifically : the Socratic techniques of exposing false beliefs and eliciting truth

b : the Platonic investigation of the eternal ideas

: the logic of fallacy

a : the Hegelian process of change in which a concept or its realization passes over into and is preserved and fulfilled by its opposite; also : the critical investigation of this process

b (1) usually plural but singular or plural in construction : development through the stages of thesis, antithesis, and synthesis in accordance with the laws of dialectical materialism (2) : the investigation of this process (3) : the theoretical application of this process especially in the social sciences

usually plural but singular or plural in construction

a : any systematic reasoning, exposition, or argument that juxtaposes opposed or contradictory ideas and usually seeks to resolve their conflict

b : an intellectual exchange of ideas

: the dialectical tension or opposition between two interacting forces or elements

See dialectic defined for English-language learners

Origin of DIALECTIC

Middle English dialetik, from Anglo-French dialetiqe, from Latin dialectica, from Greek dialektikē, from feminine of dialektikos of conversation, from dialektos

First Known Use: 14th century