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idealism

Browse the Dictionary:: A; B; C; D; E; F; G; H; I; J; K; L; M; N; O; P; Q; R; S; T; U; V; W; X; Y; Z; #

idealism

Main Entry:: ide·al·ism
Pronunciation:: \ī-ˈdē-(ə-)ˌliz-əm, ˈī-(ˌ)dē-\
Function:: noun
Date:: 1796

1 a (1): a theory that ultimate reality lies in a realm transcending phenomena (2): a theory that the essential nature of reality lies in consciousness or reason b (1): a theory that only the perceptible is real (2): a theory that only mental states or entities are knowable2 a: the practice of forming ideals or living under their influence b: something that is idealized3: literary or artistic theory or practice that affirms the preeminent value of imagination as compared with faithful copying of nature — compare realism

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