dualistic etymology

Etymology

  • Latin: dualis ("double, twofold")
  • Indo-European: *dwo- ("two")

Meaning and Origin

Dualistic refers to the philosophical or religious belief that the world is primarily composed of two opposing forces or principles. The term was first used in the 5th century BC by the Greek philosopher Anaxagoras to describe his theory of matter as composed of an infinite number of pairs of opposite qualities.

The concept of dualism has been a fundamental aspect of many philosophical and religious systems throughout history, including:

  • Zoroastrianism: The conflict between the forces of good (Ahura Mazda) and evil (Ahriman).
  • Gnosticism: The belief in the separation of the material world (created by an evil demiurge) from the spiritual realm (created by a higher, transcendent God).
  • Daoism: The complementary forces of Yin and Yang.
  • Platonism: The distinction between the world of Forms (perfect and eternal) and the world of appearances (imperfect and changing).
  • Christianity: The opposition between good and evil, God and Satan, heaven and hell.

Dualism is often contrasted with monism, which posits that there is only one ultimate reality or substance.

In more general usage, dualistic can refer to any situation or belief system that involves two opposing or contrasting elements. For example, one might speak of a "dualistic personality" or a "dualistic system of government."

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