monism

monism
—monist, n. —monistic /meuh nis"tik, moh-/, monistical, adj. —monistically, adv.
/mon"iz euhm, moh"niz euhm/, n.
1. Philos.
a. (in metaphysics) any of various theories holding that there is only one basic substance or principle as the ground of reality, or that reality consists of a single element. Cf. dualism (def. 2), pluralism (def. 1a).
b. (in epistemology) a theory that the object and datum of cognition are identical. Cf. pluralism (def. 1b).
2. the reduction of all processes, structures, concepts, etc., to a single governing principle; the theoretical explanation of everything in terms of one principle.
3. the conception that there is one causal factor in history; the notion of a single element as primary determinant of behavior, social action, or institutional relations.
[1860-65; < G Monismus. See MON-, -ISM]

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In metaphysics, the doctrine that the world is essentially one substance or contains only one kind of substance.

Monism is opposed both to dualism and to pluralism. Examples of monism include materialism, pantheism, and metaphysical idealism. See also Benedict de Spinoza.

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Universalium. 2010.

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