Dialectical pluralism: concepts and frameworks

Dialectical Pluralism means that the doctrine of pluralism in philosophy is arrived at by means of logical argument. This argument includes Hegel's technique of stating a thesis, for which an antithesis is then developed. These are then combined to become a coherent and logical synthesis.

Pluralism may be contrasted with monism and dualism, in that it incorporates a multiplicity of ideas rather than a single one or a dual one, where there are two opposing forces. Pluralism holds that there cannot be only on or two systems according to which the world may philosophically be explained. Instead there is a multiplicity of ideas, each of which has its logical place in the philosophy of the world that is. The opposing force in this argument is then that, while there are many ways to explain whatever subject field is the focus, these explanations contradict each other. It is thus difficult to delineate all these as a single "truth." Besides this, the original thesis is that there are many, rather than one single "truth."

The contradictory forces within pluralism are inherent within the philosophy itself, rather than delineated as opposing or outside forces.

Monism for example would accommodate only outside forces as contradictory to itself as ultimate truth, while dualism entertains a directly opposing force. Dilectical pluralism on the other hand includes contradiction within itself. Here also contradiction is accepted as part of the philosophy without having to consciously argue in order to submit it to the accepted truths of either monism or dualism.

The philosophy of dialectical pluralism then appears to be perfectly aligned to the philosophical needs of the 21st century. The social paradigm of tolerance calls for nothing less. Monism is certainly out of the question, and dualism is merely another form of monism, where two opposing forces seek to reconcile into a single, ultimate truth. Tolerance however calls for dialectical pluralism in terms of both cultural and religious philosophies.

The only "truth" in the world as it is known to human beings today is that there is no ultimate truth. There are in fact many different ways to see and interpret the world. This philosophy is based on the fact that each human being perceives the events and physical dimensions around him- or herself differently. These different perceptions stem from the fact that every human being has different experiences of life influencing perception. This recognition then leads to the logical conclusion that pluralism is the logical system according to which the world and society might be viewed.

Examples of pluralistic views of the world abound. The most obvious is religious pluralism. In general, when seen from an objective point-of-view, no religion is seen as better than any other. Another area is relationships. Sexuality is seen in a different light than a century ago. Homosexuality as well as hetero- and bisexuality are not seen as morally wrong in as far as it benefits both parties involved in the relationship.

In terms of current philosophy, dialectic pluralism involves social values that cater to individual tastes in every area of life. Society is no longer expected to criticize, but rather to accept, regardless of how unorthodox individual values may appear.