'''Dialectic''' (also called ''dialectics'' or ''the dialectical method'') is a method of argument, which has been central to both Indic and European philosophy since ancient times. The word "dialectic" originates in Ancient Greece, and was made popular by [[Plato]] in his [[Socratic dialogues]]. Dialectic is based on a [[dialogue]] between two or more people who may hold differing views, yet wish to seek the truth of the matter through the exchange of their viewpoints while applying reason.<ref>[[The Republic (Plato)]], 348b</ref> This differs from a [[debate]], in which both sides are committed to their viewpoint and only wish to win the debate by persuading or proving themselves right (or the other side wrong) – and thus a jury or judge is often needed to decide the matter. It also differs from [[rhetoric]], which is oratory that appeals to [[logos]], [[pathos]], or [[ethos]]. Rhetoric is communication designed to persuade an audience to side with a particular argument or action.

'''Dialectic''' (also called ''dialectics'' or ''the dialectical method'') is a method of argument, which has been central to both Indic and European philosophy since ancient times. The word "dialectic" originates in Ancient Greece, and was made popular by Plato in his Socratic dialogues. Dialectic is based on a dialogue between two or more people who may hold differing views, yet wish to seek the truth of the matter through the exchange of their viewpoints while applying reason.<ref>The Republic (Plato), 348b</ref> This differs from a debate, in which both sides are committed to their viewpoint and only wish to win the debate by persuading or proving themselves right (or the other side wrong) – and thus a jury or judge is often needed to decide the matter. It also differs from rhetoric, which is oratory that appeals to logos, pathos, or ethos. Rhetoric is communication designed to persuade an audience to side with a particular argument or action.