Aufheben

"Aufheben" is a German philosophical term, notably used by Hegel, meaning to simultaneously cancel, preserve, and elevate. It describes a process where conflicting ideas or forces are negated, but their positive elements are retained and integrated into a higher understanding. Think of it like refining a rough diamond: the flaws are removed, but valuable facets remain and are enhanced. In essence, Aufheben captures the dynamic motion of progression—resolving contradictions not by rejecting earlier stages completely, but by transforming and elevating them into a more advanced unity.