Asymmetrical Concepts Reformulating: the asymmetry´s symmetry

Abstract

Asymmetrical Concepts, defined by Reinhart Koselleck, have a strong utility as analytical tools: in fact they are deeply involved not only in the identity questions regarding “Us” against “Others” but also in the supremacy structures contained in the language and concepts. This work analyzes in detail the symmetrical and asymmetrical relationships of the opposite concepts in order to propose that one concept may play the role of a couple of counter-concepts. This occurs owing to the fact that two fighting groups give different evaluations of that concept. This theoretic proposal is exemplified by the use of the “nobility” concept as an asymmetrical concept by two liberal tendencies in Spain in the first half of nineteen Century.