dualism
UK: ˈdjuːəlɪzəm | US: ˈduːəlɪzəm
n. The division of something conceptually into two opposed or contrasted aspects.
n. (Philosophy) A theory that explains phenomena by two fundamentally distinct principles (e.g., mind and matter).
n. (Theology) The belief in two supreme opposed powers or gods (e.g., good and evil).
Derived from Latin dualis ("relating to two"), from duo ("two"), combined with the suffix -ism (from Greek -ismos), indicating a distinctive system or philosophy. The term emerged in the 18th century to describe philosophical and theological systems that posit two irreducible, often opposing principles (e.g., Descartes' mind-body dualism). The morpheme dual preserves its Latin root meaning, while -ism abstracts it into a formal concept.
Descartes' dualism separates the mind and body as distinct entities.
The ancient religion of Zoroastrianism is based on a dualism of light and darkness.
Modern physics challenges traditional dualism by showing the interdependence of energy and matter.
The artist’s work explores the dualism of chaos and order.
Cultural dualism often arises in societies with conflicting value systems.