dualism

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du·al·ism / ˈd(y)oōəˌlizəm/ • n. 1. the division of something conceptually into two opposed or contrasted aspects, or the state of being so divided: a dualism between man and nature. ∎  Philos. a theory or system of thought that regards a domain of reality in terms of two independent principles, esp. mind and matter (Cartesian dualism). Compare with idealism, materialism, and monism. ∎  the religious doctrine that the universe contains opposed powers of good and evil, esp. seen as balanced equals. ∎  in Christian theology, the heresy that in the incarnate Christ there were two coexisting persons, human and divine.2. the quality or condition of being dual; duality.DERIVATIVES: du·al·ist n. & adj.du·al·is·tic / ˌd(y)oōəˈlistik/ adj.du·al·is·ti·cal·ly / ˌd(y)oōəˈlistik(ə)lē/ adv.

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