Who is considered an idealist in philosophical terms?

In philosophical terms, an idealist is someone who emphasizes the importance of ideals, values, and broad goals over tangible, material conditions or immediate outcomes. Idealists typically believe that reality is shaped by the mind and that our perceptions and ideals play a crucial role in understanding existence. This perspective often leads to a focus on what could be rather than what is, advocating for a vision of a better world based on high moral standards and aspirational goals.

This choice aligns with the principles underlying idealism, which can manifest in numerous philosophical and social contexts, including justice, ethics, and governance. Idealists may argue for systemic changes rooted in these ideals, aiming for a society that reflects these aspirations, even if the practical implementation is challenging. In contrast, the other options focus on empirical evidence, strict law enforcement, or practical solutions, which do not prioritize the advocacy of ideals in the same way that idealism does.