Final answer:
A dialectic is a debate meant to resolve conflicts between contradictory ideas by pursuing a greater understanding of truth, emphasizing logic and reason over persuasive tactics.
Step-by-step explanation:
The debate intended to resolve a conflict between two contradictory ideas by reaching a closer understanding of the truth is known as a dialectic. A traditional dialectic involves an exchange of ideas to seek the truth rather than merely winning an argument. In contrast to rhetoric, which is the art of persuasion, and oratorical, which relates to formal speaking, dialectic is concerned with logically examining opinions and beliefs to arrive at a more accurate position. Ancient philosophers like Socrates practiced this method of gaining knowledge through dialectics, engaging in dialogues to seek justified beliefs.
Participants in a dialectic, or interlocuters, use this method for mutual enlightenment, trading their less informed or false beliefs for knowledge. This collaborative process stands in contrast to adversarial debate where the aim is often to persuade an audience or opposition using emotional appeals, often found in rhetorical encounters.