Idealism

This article is about the philosophical notion of Idealism. Idealism is also a term in international relations theory and in Christian eschatology.

Related Topics:
International relations theory - Christian eschatology

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Idealism is an approach to philosophical enquiry. The ideal, in these systems, relates to direct knowledge of subjective mental ideas, or images. It is usually juxtaposed with realism in which the real is said to have absolute existence prior to and independent of our knowledge. Ontological idealists might insist that the only things that really exist are ideas. Epistemological idealists might insist that the only things which can be directly known for certain are ideas.

Related Topics:
Philosophical enquiry - Realism - Ontological - Epistemological

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