Explanation
An antinomy is a conflict in which opposing claims emerge from apparently compelling arguments. The term has different historical emphases. In Kant it concerns conflicts of reason in rational cosmology; his resolution varies with the antinomy. In logic and set theory, antinomies can expose contradictions following from problematic assumptions. For the link from paradox, the crucial point is that not every surprising claim is an antinomy, and a philosophical conflict is not a formal contradiction without further reconstruction.
Movement of thought
1. Formulate both claims precisely. 2. Reconstruct their arguments. 3. Identify shared assumptions. 4. Specify the historical and logical framework.
Scientific use case
A conceptual history could compare Kantian argument pairs with set-theoretic derivations while keeping their different assumptions explicit.
Example
Following the classical set example: suppose R is the set of all sets that do not contain themselves. Both R ∈ R and R ∉ R then lead to their opposite. The problematic assumption is unrestricted set formation.
Counterexample
Two people with different preferences do not thereby present an antinomy. Nor does a surprising result without contradiction.
Distinction
Distinguish an antinomy from paradox in its broad sense, ordinary disagreement and rhetorical antithesis.
Effect on thought and perception
The conflict may prompt revision of assumptions instead of merely choosing a side.
Resonance
Two paths collide and call into question the ground from which both begin.
Provenance
Parallel source review reconciled 2026-10-07; human specialist review not claimed.
Cite this entry
Reich, Michael (Hrsg./ed.): „Antinomy“. Atlas der Sprache, AT-NAV-G02-009. ATLAS 259, data model 1.6.0. https://atlasoflanguage.com/concept/AT-NAV-G02-009The address remains stable; editorial content may evolve. Editorial reading state: 2026-10-15. Include your access date for precise references.