Skip to content

Those who maintain that mind is the reality and matter an…

“Those who maintain that mind is the reality and matter an evil dream are called "idealists"—a word which has a different meaning in philosophy from that which it bears in ordinary life. Those who argue that matter is the reality and mind a mere property of protoplasm are called "materialists.” quote by Bertrand Russell
Download Open image
““Those who maintain that mind is the reality and matter an evil dream are called "idealists"—a word which has a different meaning in philosophy from that which it bears in ordinary life. Those who argue that matter is the reality and mind a mere property of protoplasm are called "materialists.””

Bertrand Russell

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Idealists view mind as primary reality; materialists view matter as primary, each term differs from everyday usage.

In simple terms: Idealists prioritize mind; materialists prioritize matter.

Key Takeaway

Recognize philosophical definitions differ from common language.

Themes

philosophy mind-body idealism materialism

Mood

analytical curious

Type

philosophical educational

When to use this quote

  • academic debate
  • ethical discussions
  • science education
  • personal belief systems

Key Concepts

ontology epistemology semantic nuance

Questions to Reflect On

  • What does "mind" mean to you?
  • How do you reconcile philosophical and everyday meanings?
A Different Perspective

These labels can oversimplify complex viewpoints.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Bertrand Russell

Explore all 1,620 Bertrand Russell quotes

More Dreams quotes

Browse all 40,599 Dreams quotes