二律背反

• Reading: にりつはいはん
• Romaji: niritsuhaihan
• Kanji breakdown: 二 (ni) — two; 律 (ritsu) — law, rule, principle; 背 (hai/soru) — to go against, oppose; 反 (han) — opposition, contradiction
• Pronunciation: /ni.ɾi.tsɯ.hai.han/

Meaning

Antinomy; paradox; a dilemma in which two equally valid principles are in irreconcilable conflict. Neither can be satisfied without violating the other.

A philosophical term adopted from Kant's concept of Antinomie — the condition in which two sound logical arguments lead to contradictory conclusions. In everyday Japanese, it describes any situation where two important values are mutually exclusive: freedom and security, efficiency and thoroughness. Used in intellectual discourse to add precision to a genuine conflict of principles. Often signals that a simple solution is impossible.

Examples

1. 自由と平等の間にある二律背反は、民主主義社会が抱える根本的な課題だ。 The antinomy between freedom and equality is a fundamental challenge facing democratic societies.
2. 経済成長と環境保護の二律背反をいかに乗り越えるかが問われている。 The question is how to overcome the dilemma between economic growth and environmental protection.
3. 安全性と利便性は時に二律背反の関係にあり、どちらかを優先せざるを得ない。 Safety and convenience are sometimes in a paradoxical relationship, and one must inevitably be prioritized over the other.

Usage Guide

Context: philosophy, political science, academic writing, intellectual discourse

Tone: analytical

Origin & History

Japanese translation of Kant's Antinomie, introduced during the Meiji period. 二律 (two principles/laws) + 背反 (contradiction, going against). Reflects the Meiji-era effort to systematically translate Western philosophical terminology.

Cultural Context

Era: Meiji–Modern

Generation: Adults

Social background: Academic/Professional