Aufheben (sublation)

Aufheben, often translated as "sublation," is a philosophical concept from Hegel describing a process where something is both preserved and transformed through change. It involves canceling or overcoming an idea or situation, but not entirely losing it—rather, its essential aspects are retained and elevated to a higher understanding. Think of it as refining or transcending a concept while keeping its core meaning intact. This process contributes to development and progress, where contradictions are resolved, leading to more advanced ideas or states. In simple terms, aufheben is about simultaneously removing and preserving elements during progress or change.