Idealism, Realism & Pragmatism

For an Asian person, having the idealism to be able to buy rice is truly a hope that has a great chance of being fulfilled. Why? Because this ideal hope is within the limits of their capabilities.

However, if this hope turns into something beyond their capabilities, then it becomes unrealistic idealism

Nevertheless, it is possible for someone to realize their idealism by buying a large amount of rice to distribute to others, only to find out that it is wasted because they had already had breakfast unexpectedly.

The effort to buy a lot of rice becomes futile. This is where the usefulness of an action should be considered. Strive to be pragmatic by evaluating its value.

However, some people may choose the easy way out. They adopt a pragmatic approach to life, as long as their actions have meaningful value. However, they neglect the effort to grow towards something better as an idealism. They are unaware of the reality of their own limitations or the circumstances, making their approach unrealistic.

So, what should we do? It is acceptable to be idealistic, but there are times when we need to relax and prioritize pragmatic steps that are in line with our realistic capabilities, in order to:

1. Avoid the difficulties of pursuing idealism.

2. Gradually save and work towards achieving idealism in a realistic manner.

3. Optimize ourselves pragmatically, moving closer to idealism.

Truth reveals things as they are, enabling us to understand their limitations and adjust them in the process of utilization. That is what philosophy is about.

For us, the ideal thing is to have a gradually increasing number of ideals, in accordance with realistic development. Therefore, choose pragmatically what is useful. What does this mean?

If idealism is difficult to attain, choose the easiest ideal and gradually move towards better ideals based on realistic capabilities. This way, every step we take is truly pragmatic and beneficial.

Approach this strategically as part of self-maturation.