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Introduction to Idealism

Idealism is one of the oldest schools of thought in the world of philosophy, originating in human nature itself, continuing from the primitive man to his present counterpart in some modified form or the other. From the metaphysical standpoint, it has overtones of spirituality since it believes that the ultimate existing element is spiritual in nature. The entire universe is an extension of the mind or soul.

Definitions of Idealism

1. Oxford Dictionary: "Idealism means representation of things in an ideal form, imaginative treatment, system of thought in which the object of external perception is held to consist of ideas."

2. Harold B. Titus: "Idealism asserts that reality consists of ideas, thoughts, minds, or selves rather than material objects and forces."

3. Prof. Brubacher: "Idealists point out that it is mind that is central in understanding the world."

4. Prof. Ross: "Idealism is the essence of mind and spirit, that the true reality is a mental character."

Importance of Idealism - Summing up the importance of Idealism in the history of philosophy, Adams has remarked, "Idealism in one form or the other permeates the whole of the history of philosophy." The essence of idealism has been admirably explained in brief in the words of G.T.W. Patrick as follows, "Idealists refuse to believe that the world is a great machine. They deny the supreme importance of matter, mechanism and the conservation of energy, as explaining our world."

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