What does monism mean?
Monism is the philosophical view that reality is ultimately based on a single substance, principle, or kind of being. It does not necessarily claim that the world contains only one thing; rather, it holds that apparent plurality can be explained in terms of one fundamental reality. In metaphysical discussion, monism is commonly contrasted with dualism, which treats two basic substances or principles as irreducible, and with pluralism, which emphasizes multiple independent realities or principles. The term is also used in theology and certain traditions of religious thought. Although monism can describe several different theories, including accounts in which everything is fundamentally mental or material, its central concern is the unity of reality. The word is useful for identifying a broad philosophical position without assuming that every monist system makes the same metaphysical claims.
nounThe philosophical doctrine that all reality consists of or derives from one fundamental substance or principle. In monism, apparent diversity is understood as an expression or modification of a single ultimate reality.
- The doctrine that all reality is fundamentally one substance or principle.
- In metaphysics, the position that reality consists of one kind of being or ultimate principle, in contrast to pluralist accounts that posit multiple independent principles.
"The philosopher argued that the apparent division between mind and matter was an illusion and defended a form of monism."
"Her lecture contrasted monism with the view that mind and matter are irreducibly distinct."
"Many metaphysical systems have been classified as versions of monism because they seek a single source for all things."
The plural is used when referring to different philosophical systems or theories classified as monism.
"The survey compares several forms of monism and pluralism."
Monism asks whether everything we experience as separate is ultimately one reality wearing many masks.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does monism come from?
Monism comes from the Greek monos, meaning “one,” together with the suffix -ism, which forms a noun naming a doctrine or practice. The term was developed in modern philosophy as a systematic label for theories that understand reality as ultimately one. Its English use emerged in the 19th century, during a period of extensive debate about monism, dualism, and pluralism.
Related word forms
How monism is actually used
Monism is primarily a term in philosophy, theology, and metaphysics. It is usually used in formal or academic discussion, and it should not be confused with claims that every practical or social distinction is unreal.
Easily confused with monism
Monism is a philosophical view that reality has one fundamental source, whereas a monopoly is exclusive control of a market or activity.
Monism concerns a philosophical claim about reality, while monotony refers to a lack of variety or repetition.