elective affinity
The term "elective affinity" has evolved from chemistry to sociology and literature, signifying various forms of natural attraction or compatibility.
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Definition
C1Sociology
(academic)The mutual attraction or alignment between social groups, ideologies, or cultural phenomena, often resulting in a synergistic relationship.
Example
- Max Weber used the concept of elective affinity to explain the relationship between Protestant ethics and capitalist values.
C1Literature
(academic)A metaphor for the natural attraction or compatibility between people, often used to describe complex human relationships.
Example
- Goethe's novel 'Elective Affinities' explores how individuals are drawn to each other based on inherent affinities, similar to chemical reactions.
C2Chemistry
(obsolete, historical)The tendency of certain substances to combine with specific others due to their chemical properties.