dualism
DOO-ul-iz-um
/ˈdjuːəlɪzəm/
The philosophical doctrine that reality consists of two fundamental principles or substances (such as mind and matter).
Most commonly refers to Cartesian mind-body dualism, which separates mental states from physical brain states.
The story behind the word. Coined in 1700 by Thomas Hyde to describe Persian religious beliefs split between good and evil, and later adapted by Christian Wolff into philosophy to contrast with monism.
Word relationships
- dichotomy: 'Dichotomy' is a division into two contrasting parts, whereas 'dualism' is a comprehensive metaphysical framework.
- monism: 'Monism' claims that reality consists of only one ultimate substance or principle.
Commonly confused with
- duality: 'Duality' describes the condition of having two parts, whereas 'dualism' is a philosophical belief system.
Word family
- dualist (noun): A person who believes in dualism.
- dualistic (adjective): Characterized by dualism.
Collocations
- mind-body dualism
- Cartesian dualism
- substance dualism
- cosmic dualism
Example sentences
- "Cartesian dualism asserts that consciousness cannot be reduced to physical brain impulses." Philosophy of mind
- "Ancient Manichaeism was defined by a cosmic dualism between light and darkness." Religious studies
Memory hook
DUAL-ISM: DUAL means TWO. Believing in TWO basic realities. Reality split into two foundational parts.
When not to use
Do not use merely to describe having two opinions; it refers to fundamental split systems.
Fun facts
- In modern physics, 'wave-particle duality' is often loosely compared to philosophical dualism.
Related words
Explore more words
determinism, absolutism, indeterminism, multitasking, nihilism, doppelganger
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