A Philosophy of Ideals

By Edgar Sheffield Brightman

"A Philosophy of Ideals" is a profound exploration of the nature and significance of human ideals within the context of systematic philosophical thought. In this work, Edgar Sheffield Brightman examines how ideals serve as both the foundation for moral conduct and the bridge between subjective experience and objective reality. The text delves into the relationship between value and fact, arguing for a worldview where ideals are not merely abstract concepts but active, governing forces in the universe.

Brightman systematically analyzes various types of ideals, their origins, and their implications for metaphysics, ethics, and religion. By addressing the challenges of skepticism and materialism, he offers a robust defense of an idealistic perspective that prioritizes the dignity of the person and the pursuit of ultimate values. As a key contribution to the tradition of American Personalism, this book explores the ontological status of values and the teleological nature of the human spirit.

This classic work remains an essential read for those interested in the history of philosophy and the enduring questions of morality and existence. Brightman's clear and systematic approach provides a comprehensive framework for understanding how ideals shape our perception of truth and the world around us.

This work has been selected by scholars as being culturally important, and is part of the knowledge base of civilization as we know it. This work was reproduced from the original artifact, and remains as true to the original work as possible. Therefore, you may see the original copyright references, library stamps (as most of these works have been housed in our most important libraries around the world), and other notations in the work.

This work is in the public domain in the United States of America, and possibly other nations. Within the United States, you may freely copy and distribute this work, as no entity (individual or corporate) has a copyright on the body of the work.

As a reproduction of a historical artifact, this work may contain missing or blurred pages, poor pictures, errant marks, etc. Scholars believe, and we concur, that this work is important enough to be preserved, reproduced, and made generally available to the public. We appreciate your support of the preservation process, and thank you for being an important part of keeping this knowledge alive and relevant.

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 102590043X
• ISBN13: 9781025900438
• Release Date: February 2026
• Publisher: Tradd Street Press
• Length: 264 Pages
• Weight: 1.20 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.6" x 6.1" x 9.2"