dialectics Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. noun a rationale for dialectical materialism based on change through the conflict of opposing forces
  2. noun any formal system of reasoning that arrives at the truth by the exchange of logical arguments
    dialectic.
  3. noun a contradiction of ideas that serves as the determining factor in their interaction
    dialectic.
    • this situation created the inner dialectic of American history

WordNet

Di`a*lec"tics noun
Etymology
L. dialectica (sc. ars), Gr. (sc. ): cf. F. dialectique.
Definitions
  1. That branch of logic which teaches the rules and modes of reasoning; the application of logical principles to discursive reasoning; the science or art of discriminating truth from error; logical discussion. ✍ Dialectics was defined by Aristotle to be the method of arguing with probability on any given problem, and of defending a tenet without inconsistency. By Plato, it was used in the following senses:
  2. Discussion by dialogue as a method of scientific investigation.
  3. The method of investigating the truth by analysis.
  4. The science of ideas or of the nature and laws of being -- higher metaphysics. By Kant, it was employed to signify the logic of appearances or illusions, whether these arise from accident or error, or from those necessary limitations which, according to this philosopher, originate in the constitution of the human intellect.

Webster 1913