Idealism Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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idealism
[aษชหdษชษlษชz(ษ)m ]
Definitions
philosophy
The belief or theory that the physical world is not real and is only an idea or mental construction. Idealism suggests that reality is created by the mind and exists independently of the physical world.
Synonyms
idealistic philosophy, philosophical idealism.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| idealism |
This term is often used in discussions about people's attitudes or approaches to life and work, especially when they focus on high standards and principles. It can sometimes imply a lack of practicality.
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| philosophical idealism |
This term is specific to the field of philosophy and refers to a school of thought that asserts that reality is fundamentally mental or immaterial. It is used in scholarly and academic discussions.
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| idealistic philosophy |
This term refers specifically to a set of beliefs or theories that emphasize idealism. It is often used in academic or intellectual discussions.
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Examples of usage
- Idealism posits that the external world is a product of our thoughts and perceptions.
- Many philosophers throughout history have debated the merits of idealism versus realism.
optimism
The practice of forming or pursuing ideals, especially unrealistically. Idealism in this context refers to striving for perfection or high moral principles.
Synonyms
high-mindedness, noble-mindedness.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| idealism |
Used to describe a belief in and pursuit of perfect or noble goals, often without regard to practicality.
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| high-mindedness |
This word refers to having strong moral principles and a sense of lofty or noble ideals.
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| noble-mindedness |
Used to describe a mindset characterized by noble and honorable intentions, often implying integrity and a sense of justice.
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Examples of usage
- Her idealism led her to believe in the inherent goodness of people.
- Despite the challenges, he maintained his idealism and dedication to his cause.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Philosophy
- Philosophers like Plato argued that the real world is just a shadow of a higher reality filled with perfect forms.
- Idealism contrasts with realism, which focuses on what is tangible and factual, emphasizing that what we perceive isn't always what actually exists.
Art
- In art, idealism often depicts the perfect beauty of nature or humanity, as seen in classical sculptures and paintings.
- Many romantic and neoclassical artists aimed to express idealized versions of reality, focusing on beauty and moral lessons.
Psychology
- Psychologists note that idealistic thinking can motivate individuals to pursue their dreams but may lead to disappointment if reality doesn't match expectations.
- This mindset can foster creativity and vision, as it encourages people to think beyond current limitations.
History
- During the Enlightenment, idealism flourished, encouraging new ideas about democracy, freedom, and human rights, fundamentally reshaping society.
- The Romantic era was marked by an idealistic trust in individual feelings and creativity, moving away from strict rationalism.
Literature
- Many literary works, especially in the 19th century, celebrated idealism by depicting protagonists striving for noble goals despite harsh realities.
- Novelists like Jane Austen explored how idealism influenced relationships, highlighting characters who grappled with their dreams and societal norms.
Origin of 'idealism'
The word 'idealism' originated in the late 18th century from the French word 'idรฉalisme', which in turn came from the Latin word 'ideal', meaning 'existing as an idea'. The concept of idealism has deep roots in philosophy, with influential thinkers such as Plato, Immanuel Kant, and George Berkeley contributing to its development.
See also: ideal, idealist, idealistic, idealization, idealize, idealizing, ideally, idealness.