Dialectical monism is an ontological position which holds that reality is ultimately a unified whole, distinguishing itself from plain monism by asserting that this whole necessarily expresses itself in dualistic terms. For the dialectical monist, the essential unity is that of complementary polarities which, while opposed in the realm of experience and perception, are co-substantial in a transcendent sense.
Ideas relating to progress or "teleological evolution" are important concepts in dialectical monism. It is important to note, however, that this teleological element is significantly different from that found in other views, owing to the fact that it is a naturalistic progression rather than a result of design or consciousness. Adherents maintain that the nature of dialectical synthesis dictates that the flow of change will tend toward a 'spiral-shaped progression' rather than a perpetual non-progressive (repetitive) circling of history. For dialectical monists, this explains the fact of self-organization in Nature, as well as the observed tendency for human societies to achieve progress over time.
Dialectical monism has been mentioned in Western literature, although infrequently. Sartre used the term on at least one occasion (in an essay relating to Marxism), although it is not clear that his interpretation was identical to that now advocated by modern adherents. For the most part, previous references to dialectical monism in Western traditions are considered to have limited significance.
Although the specific term has never been used outside the West, advocates maintain that dialectical monism has a much greater presence in Eastern traditions. A wide number of Taoist sources are cited, especially those which relate to the Taiji or yin-yang concepts. In addition, several Buddhist works are seen as containing strong elements of dialectical monism, the Heart Sutra being a notable example.
