Allgemeingültiges

Allgemeingültiges is a German noun referring to something that has universal validity—a statement, rule, or principle that applies in all relevant cases or contexts. The term combines Allgemein "general, universal" with gültig "valid."

In philosophy and logic, Allgemeingültigkeit denotes the quality of being true independent of time, place, or circumstance; a proposition that holds in all possible interpretations that respect the governing rules. It is closely related to the idea of logical validity or a priori necessity.

In mathematics and formal logic, statements that are universally valid are true under every interpretation and assignment; they are often treated as tautologies or universally quantified truths. In the sciences, Allgemeingültige Gesetze or Prinzipien claim wide applicability, though scientists acknowledge domain-specific limits and exceptions, especially in complex or emergent systems.

In linguistics and anthropology, the term appears in discussions of universals—patterns or tendencies that recur across languages or cultures—and in debates about how to establish cross-cultural Allgemeingültigkeit. Critics argue that universality can mask variation, while supporters emphasize robustness and transferability.

Historically, the concept raises questions about evidence for universality, the role of context, and how to reconcile plural perspectives with claims of Allgemeingültigkeit. The term is common in German-language philosophy, epistemology, logic, and science studies.

See also: universalism, universal quantification, validity, a priori, laws of nature, universals.