Diversity
Hegel (logic of essence, second stage of distinction)
Diversity is the middle stage of distinction --- between the abstract "distinction as such" and the essential "opposition."
Origin
Hegel distinguishes fine nuances often blurred in traditional logic. Diversity is the "external" distinction, opposition the "inner" one.
In Hegel
Enz. §117; Science of Logic, Vol. 2, Essence
Cross-references
Distinction · Opposition · Contradiction · Reflective Determinations · Identity
Die struktur
In diversity, the distinguished terms are *indifferent* to one another. A and B are diverse, but this diversity does not concern their essence --- they could also exist without each other. Apples and pears are diverse, but an apple is not essentially determined by not being a pear.
Der unterschied zum gegensatz
In opposition, by contrast, the distinguished terms are *essentially* related to one another --- they mutually constitute one another through exclusion. "Positive" and "negative" exist only in pairs; there is "above" only where there is "below."
Die dialektische bewegung (kap. 5.7.b)
1. **Absolute distinction** --- distinction as such, still indeterminate 2. **Diversity** --- external distinction, indifference 3. **Opposition** --- essential distinction, mutual exclusion
Warum die verschiedenheit nicht stabil bleibt
If we ask *in what respect* A and B are diverse, we must specify a common respect - and thereby we already place them in relation. Mere indifference dissolves; the distinction becomes more determinate and drives toward opposition.