Balance

as 'having two scales'

Morphological analysis

• Etymon: The word balance derives from Latin bilanx: 'having two scales'
• Morpheme breakdown: bi: 'two' + lanx: 'scales' → 'two scales'

Essential definition

The essential, morphological definition of balance" is 'having two scales'. This denotes the apparatus or condition of possessing two sides, pans, or considerations, and does not in itself imply any particular state of equality or equilibrium between them.

Semantic context

• Conventional sense: A state in which opposing forces harmonise; equilibrium. (Note: Semantic drift from essential meaning)
• Essential meaning (my usage): having two scales

Philosophical significance

The word balance should not be confused with equilibrium: 'setting scales [to] level'. Setting the balance of two scales to level is equilibrium by definition, whereas balance is any condition of two scales be they level or unlevel.

Usage in this lexicon

When I use the word balance in my work, I mean exactly 'having two scales'. This definition:

• frees 'balance' from the implication of symmetry or equality. A balance (having two scales) is essential for weighing and comparing two different things, acknowledging their inherent difference, which is a prerequisite for any meaningful justice or evaluation;
• prevents the single word 'balance' from being forced to carry the meanings of both the instrument and the state of perfect equality, which often leads to ambiguity and confused arguments;
• forces clarity by asking is the discussion about the structure of consideration (do we have a fair process with two sides represented?) or about the specific outcome (is the result perfectly even?). These are different political, ethical, and practical questions;
• stops the fundamental error of confusing a noun of apparatus (a tool) with a noun of state or action (a result). Using 'balance' to mean 'equilibrium' is like using 'ruler' to mean 'twelve inches'. It conflates the measuring instrument with the specific measurement;
• separate the concepts becoming easier to spot and critique arguments that mistake the mere existence of a two-sided structure (balance) for a just or correct outcome (equilibrium). It highlights that having two sides heard does not automatically mean the outcome is fair or equal;
• follows a principle of morphological essentialism, building meaning directly from the word's constituent parts (bi- 'two' + lanx 'scale'). This creates a stable, etymologically anchored foundation for specialized use, independent of the more fluid, conventional meaning;
• frames balance as the necessary condition for a dynamic process. You must first 'have two scales' before you can engage in the ongoing activity of 'setting them level' (equilibrium), which may be a continual adjustment rather than a static state.

Related terms

• Equilibrium

Sources

• Wiktionary

*This definition follows morphological essentialism principles. See the Methodology for details.