Idealism vs realism
Idealism
Idealism is the theory that is based on the decision that all things and phenomena of objective reality consist of not material, but ideal, spiritual beginning, namely feelings, ideas and mind. As to the general definition, idealism presupposes to consider all things as perfect. According to the idealism we focus on what is supposed to be, what should be. We can say that our reality is influenced by what we think and dream. That is why idealism is considered to be positive, and all idealist have positive type of thinking. As an example we can take the famous test with a glass that can be either half empty or half full. Since the idealists always think positively, they will say that the glass is half full. Idealists are prone to risks and risky decisions as they are not practical in their choice.
Idealism presupposes looking always for good thinks and positive sides in everything. This is reason why idealists are less often affected by mishaps. On the other hand, it has a negative influence on their lives. They might be lost in their dreams and imaginary world and not notice real problems. The idealists is prone to setting not reachable goals and thus it will lead to the disappointments.
All in all, idealism shapes the real world and the interpretation of the world. It always gives you the hope for a better and you consider all thing to be perfect. If we compare idealism with realism, idealists are always positive in what they do and what they have. For idealists it is more complicated to achieve the goals since they lack focus and clarity in what they do.
Realism is the theory that states that things we know or perceive are independent of our thoughts or beliefs. Realism deals with real facts and reality that does not depend on the thoughts, ideas or dreams. The theory was born with Pre-Socratic philosophers, while the final definition was formulated by Plato in his theory of Forms. Later on the doctrine was amended by such philosophers as St. Augustine, St. Anselm and St. Thomas Aquinas. Platonic Realism states that universals exist in more than one place at the same time. Universals were considered by Plato the property of an object (Mastin, 2008). Generally speaking, realists are more pragmatic in their comprehension of different situations. They usually focus more on what we have right now and on the real state of things.
If we take a famous example with half empty or half full glass, the realists do not necessarily think negatively, but they definitely do not take the things optimistically. Traditionally the realists are considered to be rather rational and they will think twice before making a decision. They will always check all options and variants, only then they will make a choice. Basically, realists are practical and like to be safe.
The success or failure the realists also take differently from idealists. The realist will always analyze the situation and set the achievable goals. He will also create a specific plan to reach them.
Briefly speaking, realists are able to analyze the situation without emotions. They usually neutrally perceive the things. Realists are goal-oriented and are able to focus on what needs to be done in order to achieve all goals.
Reference List:
1. Mastin, L. (2008). Realism. The Basics of Philosophy. Retrieved from http://www.philosophybasics.com/branch_realism.html
