  The general concept of symmetry is realized in manifold ways in different
realms of reality, such as plants, animals, minerals, mathematical objects or
human artefacts in literature, fine arts and society. In order to arrive at a
common ground for this variedness a very general conceptualization of symmetry
is proposed: Existence of substitutions, which, in the given context, do not
lead to an essential change. This simple definition has multiple consequences:
-The context dependence of the notion of symmetry is evident in the humanities
but by no means irrelevant yet often neglected in science. The subtle
problematic of concept formation and the ontological status of similarities
opens up. -In general, the substitutions underlying the concept of symmetry are
not really performed but remain in a state of virtuality. Counterfactuality,
freedom and creativity come into focus. The detection of previously hidden
symmetries may provide deep and surprising insights. -Related to this, due
attention is devoted to the aesthetic dimension of symmetry and the breaking of
it. -Finally, we point out to what extent life is based on the interplay
between order and freedom, between full and broken symmetry.
