manichaeism

/ˌmænɪˈkiɪzəm/
noun
  1. A religious system based on a belief in two opposing forces, one good (light) and one evil (darkness), that are always fighting.
    • Scholars study Manichaeism to understand how ancient religions explained the problem of evil.
    • The teacher compared the political conflict to Manichaeism, with each side seeing the other as purely evil.
    • Manichaeism taught that the world is a battlefield between the forces of light and darkness.
  2. A way of thinking that divides everything into two opposite groups, such as good vs. evil, with no middle ground.
    • Some critics say the movie's Manichaeism makes the villains cartoonishly evil and the heroes perfect.
    • In her writing, she rejects Manichaeism and instead explores the gray areas of human morality.
    • The politician's speech was full of Manichaeism, painting every issue as a simple choice between right and wrong.
Synonyms
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