monism
MAHN-iz-um
/ˈmɒnɪzəm/
The philosophical view that all reality is unified and composed of a single ultimate substance or principle.
Can take the form of physicalism (all is matter), idealism (all is mind), or neutral monism.
The story behind the word. Coined in German ('Monismus') by Christian Wolff in 1728 to categorize philosophies that unify mind and matter under one foundational umbrella, deriving from Greek 'monos' (alone/single).
Word relationships
- oneness: 'Oneness' is an informal spiritual expression, while 'monism' is a rigorous technical philosophical term.
- dualism: 'Dualism' posits two distinct ultimate realities rather than one.
- pluralism: 'Pluralism' posits many distinct ultimate substances.
Commonly confused with
- monotheism: 'Monotheism' means worshiping one God; 'monism' means believing reality is composed of one basic substance.
Word family
- monist (noun): An adherent of monism.
- monistic (adjective): Relating to or characterized by monism.
Collocations
- neutral monism
- idealist monism
- strict monism
- philosophical monism
Example sentences
- "Materialism is a form of monism that asserts everything in existence is ultimately physical matter." Metaphysical philosophy
- "Advaita Vedanta is a classic example of non-dual monism, teaching that the individual soul and cosmic reality are one." Eastern philosophy
Memory hook
MONO-ISM: MONO means ONE. Believing that all existence is ONE substance. All reality is built from ONE single substance.
When not to use
Do not confuse with 'monotheism' (belief in one God); monism concerns the unity of all substance.
Fun facts
- Spinoza was considered one of Western philosophy's greatest monists because he identified God and Nature as identical.
Explore more words
monotheism, Substance, absolutism, rationalism, determinism, nihilism
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