Opposition

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Opposition is the highest stage of distinction (after absolute difference and diversity). In opposition, the determinations are no longer indifferent to each other (as with diversity), but are essentially related to each other: each moment is what it is through exclusion of the other.

Origin: Hegel develops a sequence of stages: distinction -> diversity -> opposition -> contradiction. Opposition is more stable than contradiction, but more dynamic than mere diversity.

In Hegel: Enc. §119; SL Vol. 2, Essence

Cross-references: Contradiction, Distinction, Diversity, Determinations of reflection, Positive/Negative

Commentary on the Logic, Chapter 5

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