equal but opposite (idea)

Another, slightly longer term for an oxymoron. Equal but opposite refers to the tendancy for magnetic opposite groups to form in response to each other.

Equal but opposite can be seen in all aspects of society. A few examples:

• Conservative v. Liberal
• Socialist v. Capitalist
• Abortion v. Right-To-Life
• Microsoft bashers v. Microsoft lovers

In all these cases, groups form to support either side, and grow in direct proportion to each other. Similar to the Cold War-era buildups in nuclear weapons.