Idealism - Dictionary Definition and Overview

Idealism :  (noun)
1: (philosophy) the philosophical theory that ideas are the only reality
2: impracticality by virtue of thinking of things in their ideal form rather than as they really are
3: elevated ideals or conduct; the quality of believing that ideals should be pursued [syn: high-mindedness, noble-mindedness]

Based on WordNet 2.0

Idealism : \I*de"al*ism\, n. The practice or habit of giving or attributing ideal form or character to things; treatment of things in art or literature according to ideal standards or patterns; -- opposed to realism.

Based on Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary

Idealism : \I*de"al*ism\, n. [Cf. F. id['e]alisme.] 1. The quality or state of being ideal.

2. Conception of the ideal; imagery.

3. (Philos.) The system or theory that denies the existence of material bodies, and teaches that we have no rational grounds to believe in the reality of anything but ideas and their relations.

Based on Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)
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