Arbitrary vs. Necessary

Attribute	Arbitrary	Necessary
Definition	Based on personal preference or choice	Required or essential
Subjectivity	Subjective	Objective
Flexibility	Flexible	Rigid
Dependency	Not dependent on external factors	Dependent on external factors

Definition

Arbitrary and necessary are two terms that are often used in philosophical discussions to describe different types of truths or concepts. Arbitrary refers to something that is based on random choice or personal whim, rather than any reason or system. Necessary, on the other hand, refers to something that is required or essential, often based on logical reasoning or natural laws.

Attributes of Arbitrary

One of the key attributes of arbitrary is its lack of a clear rationale or justification. Arbitrary decisions are often made without any logical reasoning or evidence to support them. This can lead to inconsistency and unpredictability in behavior or outcomes. For example, if someone makes arbitrary decisions in a leadership role, it can create confusion and frustration among their team members.

Another attribute of arbitrary is its subjective nature. What one person considers arbitrary, another person may see as perfectly reasonable. This can make it difficult to come to a consensus or agreement when arbitrary decisions are involved. For example, if a teacher assigns grades arbitrarily, students may feel that the grading system is unfair and inconsistent.

Arbitrary decisions are also often seen as lacking in legitimacy or authority. When something is done arbitrarily, it can be perceived as unjust or unfair because there is no clear rationale for why it was done that way. This can erode trust and confidence in the decision-maker or system that is making arbitrary choices.

Arbitrary decisions can also be seen as temporary or changeable. Because they are not based on any solid foundation or reasoning, arbitrary choices can be easily reversed or altered. This can lead to instability or uncertainty in a situation where arbitrary decisions are being made.

Finally, arbitrary decisions are often made impulsively or without careful consideration. This can lead to negative consequences or unintended outcomes. For example, if someone makes an arbitrary decision without thinking through the potential ramifications, it can result in harm to themselves or others.

Attributes of Necessary

One of the key attributes of necessary is its basis in reason or logic. Necessary truths are often derived from logical arguments or empirical evidence. This gives them a sense of solidity and reliability that arbitrary truths lack. For example, scientific laws are considered necessary because they are based on observable phenomena and rigorous testing.

Necessary truths are also often seen as universal or timeless. Because they are based on logical reasoning or natural laws, necessary truths are thought to apply in all situations and contexts. This gives them a sense of permanence and consistency that arbitrary truths do not have. For example, mathematical truths are considered necessary because they hold true regardless of time or place.

Necessary truths are also often seen as objective or impartial. Because they are based on reason or evidence, necessary truths are thought to be independent of personal biases or opinions. This can make them more reliable and trustworthy than arbitrary truths, which can be influenced by individual perspectives or preferences.

Necessary truths are also often seen as foundational or fundamental. Because they are based on logical reasoning or natural laws, necessary truths are thought to provide a solid basis for understanding the world. This can make them essential for building coherent and consistent systems of knowledge or belief.

Finally, necessary truths are often seen as immutable or unchangeable. Because they are based on logical reasoning or natural laws, necessary truths are thought to be fixed and unalterable. This gives them a sense of certainty and stability that arbitrary truths lack.

Comparison

When comparing arbitrary and necessary attributes, it becomes clear that they represent two different ways of understanding truth or concepts. Arbitrary is characterized by its lack of rationale, subjectivity, lack of legitimacy, changeability, and impulsiveness. Necessary, on the other hand, is characterized by its basis in reason, universality, objectivity, foundational nature, and immutability.

While arbitrary decisions may be made on a whim or without clear reasoning, necessary truths are derived from logical arguments or empirical evidence. This gives necessary truths a sense of solidity and reliability that arbitrary decisions lack. Additionally, necessary truths are often seen as universal or timeless, applying in all situations and contexts, while arbitrary decisions are often seen as temporary or changeable.

Furthermore, necessary truths are often seen as objective or impartial, independent of personal biases or opinions, while arbitrary decisions are often seen as subjective and influenced by individual perspectives. Necessary truths are also often seen as foundational or fundamental, providing a solid basis for understanding the world, while arbitrary decisions are often seen as lacking in legitimacy or authority.

In conclusion, while arbitrary and necessary attributes represent two different ways of understanding truth or concepts, it is clear that necessary truths have a stronger basis in reason, logic, and evidence, making them more reliable and trustworthy than arbitrary decisions. By recognizing the differences between arbitrary and necessary attributes, we can better understand the importance of logical reasoning and empirical evidence in forming solid foundations for knowledge and belief.