10+ Idealism Books for Free! [PDF]

If you are one of those who find philosophy as a subject of great interest, we present you a collection of free books of idealism in PDF format, so that you know this philosophical branch.

What is known as idealism consists of one of the philosophical theories, the assertion of which indicates the primacy of ideas; it points out that the reality we know is basically a construct of the mind. 

A person who practices idealism is called an idealist and is someone who is not attached to materialism, empiricism, or dogmatism. 

The purpose of idealism is to focus on human thought, without support or support from something external; in short, it establishes that the concepts that bring reason to the world come from thought.

If you wish to further deepen your knowledge of this philosophical theory, we invite you to read our collection of more than 10 materials including free books and articles on idealism in PDF format.

Idealism Books

#1 A defense of idealism

Extension: PDF | 145 pages

A defense of idealism by Daniel Kodaj explores idealism within analytic metaphysics, focusing on the relationship between the mental and physical. This PDF provides a rigorous philosophical exploration and defense of idealism.

#2 Hegel’S Idealism

Extension: PDF | 70 pages

Hegel’S Idealism por Robert Stern offers a comprehensive analysis of Hegel's idealism, exploring its relationship to Kant and its various interpretations. This paper challenges common misconceptions and invites readers to reconsider Hegel's complex philosophical stance.

#3 Modal Idealism

Extension: PDF | 57 pages

Modal Idealism by David Builes explores the fascinating concept that idealism is metaphysically necessary. This compelling draft challenges contemporary philosophical views and offers a fresh perspective, making it a must-read for anyone interested in the nature of reality and consciousness.

#4 Idealism and the Mind-Body Problem

Extension: PDF | 31 pages

Idealism and the Mind-Body Problem by David J. Chalmers explores the viability of idealism as a solution to the mind-body problem, examining micro, macro, and cosmic idealism. This insightful analysis delves into the strengths and challenges of each idealist perspective, offering a valuable exploration for anyone interested in consciousness and met...

#5 History and Idealism – The Theory of R. G. Collingwood

Extension: PDF | 24 pages

History and Idealism - The Theory of R. G. Collingwood by Saul A. Kripke examines Collingwood's idealist theory of history, differentiating it from speculative philosophies and emphasizing its epistemological focus. Explore the nuances of historical understanding and the enduring relevance of idealist thought.

#6 The Refutation Of Idealism

Extension: PDF | 16 pages

"The Refutation of Idealism" by G. E. Moore challenges the core tenets of modern Idealism, specifically the assertion that reality is fundamentally spiritual and dependent on perception. It provides a critical analysis of the arguments supporting Idealism, prompting readers to re-evaluate their understanding of reality.

#7 Historical context of idealism vs. realism

Extension: PDF | 14 pages

Historical context of idealism vs. realism por Nesimi, Hedibe analyzes the historical perspectives of idealism and realism in international relations. It contrasts classical thinkers and their views on conflict, peace, and state behavior, offering valuable insights into the philosophical foundations of political thought.

#8 A little idealism is idealism enough – a study on idealism in aristotle‘s epistemology

Extension: PDF | 13 pages

A little idealism is idealism enough - a study on idealism in aristotle‘s epistemology por Luís M. Augusto unveils the presence of idealist features within Aristotle's epistemology, challenging the traditional view of him as a pure realist. Explore how Aristotle's ideas influenced medieval philosophers like Dietrich of Freiberg and Eckhart of Ho...

#9 Idealism And Its Effects

Extension: PDF | 12 pages

Idealism And Its Effects by Kubra Mahmutoglu explores the history and principles of idealism in international relations. This document offers a valuable analysis of idealism's impact and its critiques, inviting readers to understand its role in shaping global politics.

#10 Plato as “Idealist” and Aristotle as “Realist” – Reflecting the idea and the ousia in View of Comparative Philosophy (Article)

Extension: PDF | 9 pages

Plato as “Idealist” and Aristotle as “Realist” (?) - Reflecting the idea and the ousia in View of Comparative Philosophy (Article) por Hisaki Hashi. This paper delves into the nuances of labeling Plato as an idealist and Aristotle as a realist, urging a more cautious comparative philosophical approach. It offers a compelling re-examination ...

#11 Berkeley’s idealism (Article)

Extension: PDF | 8 pages

Berkeley’s idealism (Article) por Jeff Speaks presents a concise exploration of George Berkeley's idealism, focusing on his arguments regarding perceptual relativity and the subjectivity of sensible qualities. This PDF offers a valuable understanding of Berkeley's core philosophical positions and his challenge to materialism.

Absolute Idealism Books

Absolute idealism is a philosophical current that originated in the 19th century, which holds that ultimate reality is of a mental or spiritual nature. 

According to this current, reality is not composed of material objects, but is the result of the activity of the mind or spirit. It was developed by the German philosopher Georg Wilhelm Friedrich Hegel, who argued that reality is a dialectical process in which mind and matter merge in a higher synthesis. 

According to Hegel, the ultimate reality is the absolute idea, which is the synthesis of all ideas and which manifests itself in history as a process of spiritual development. Enjoy the following books and articles on absolute idealism.

#1 Hegel’S Logic Of Absolute Idealism And His Political Argument – The Conceptuality Of Actuality

Extension: PDF | 404 pages

Hegel’S Logic Of Absolute Idealism And His Political Argument - The Conceptuality Of Actuality por Matthew J. Smetona is a deep dive into Hegel's logic, offering a profound understanding of its theoretical foundations. Explores the intricate relationship between Hegel's logic and his political arguments, making it essential for comprehending his ...

#2 Evolutionary Ethics and Idealism

Extension: PDF | 31 pages

Evolutionary Ethics and Idealism by Salma Abdullahi Elmi explores the dialogue between British idealism and Darwinism in the late 19th century. Delve into the ethical implications of evolutionary theory through the lens of idealist philosophers like Henry Jones and Andrew Seth Pringle-Pattison.

#3 The Idealism of Mary Whiton Calkins

Extension: PDF | 28 pages

The Idealism of Mary Whiton Calkins por Kris McDaniel explores Calkins' unique version of absolute idealism, emphasizing her personalistic approach. This paper provides valuable insight into a lesser-known but significant figure in the history of philosophy.

#4 Absolute Idealist Powers

Extension: PDF | 15 pages

Absolute Idealist Powers by Jesse M. Mulder explores powers metaphysics through an absolute idealist lens. It motivates the claim that the very idea of power is best understood as an idealist concept.

#5 Hegelian idealism – an overview (Article)

Extension: PDF | 4 pages

Hegelian idealism - an overview (Article) by Randeep Dhoot explores Hegel's political philosophy, emphasizing dialectics and the state. It's a concise entry point for understanding Hegel's complex ideas, making it a valuable read for those interested in political thought.

Transcendental Idealism Books

To deepen everything related to the philosophical current of Immanuel Kant, we have prepared a set of books on transcendental idealism in PDF format for you.

According to Kant, it was necessary to take an external point of view that was also above the person, to understand that the mind knows directly, only ideas or phenomena; this is what is known as transcendental idealism.

So that you can know everything related to this approach of the German philosopher, you can consult the books that we present in this section of our virtual library.

#1 The Critique of Practical Reason

Extension: PDF | 86 pages

The Critique of Practical Reason by Immanuel Kant, Book I, explores the foundations of morality and the principles that govern rational action. This seminal work delves into the autonomy of the will, the moral law, and the nature of freedom, offering profound insights into the ethical realm.

#2 The Critique of Practical Reason II

Extension: PDF | 50 pages

The Critique of Practical Reason II by Immanuel Kant delves into the dialectic of pure practical reason and its implications for morality. It explores the concepts of the summum bonum and the postulates of immortality and God, offering a profound understanding of Kantian ethics.

#3 Kant’s Transcendental Idealism as Empirical Realism

Extension: PDF | 268 pages

Kant’s Transcendental Idealism as Empirical Realism by Lewis Edward Clarke offers a detailed examination of Kant's philosophy, focusing on the compatibility between transcendental idealism and empirical realism. This PDF is valuable for understanding Kant's complex ideas and their relevance to contemporary philosophical debates.

#4 Transcendental idealism and the organism

Extension: PDF | 221 pages

Transcendental idealism and the organism por Marcel Quarfood offers a deep dive into Kant's philosophy, exploring the ambiguous role of the organism. It unveils Kant's perspective on biological teleology within the framework of transcendental idealism.

#5 Husserl’s transcendental idealism & the problem of solipsism

Extension: PDF | 163 pages

Husserl’s transcendental idealism & the problem of solipsism por Rodney K.B. Parker explores Husserl's transcendental idealism and defends it against charges of solipsism. A valuable resource for understanding Husserl's complex philosophical framework.

#6 A Critical Analysis of Immanuel Kant’s Groundwork of the Metaphysics of Morals

Extension: PDF | 22 pages

A Critical Analysis of Immanuel Kant’s Groundwork of the Metaphysics of Morals por Abraham Tsehay Jemberie, delves into Kant's foundational work on morality, examining his categorical imperative and its justification. This analysis critically assesses Kant's arguments, offering valuable insights for understanding his transcendental idealism.

#7 Johann Gottlieb Fichte, Political Philosopher

Extension: PDF | 18 pages

Johann Gottlieb Fichte, Political Philosopher by Gunter Zoller analyzes Fichte's philosophical work, highlighting its political dimensions. The PDF explores Fichte's concept of freedom and its relation to Kant's transcendental idealism, offering valuable insights into his system of freedom.

#8 Transcendental Idealism at the Limit – On A. W. Moore’s Criticism of Kant

Extension: PDF | 17 pages

Transcendental Idealism at the Limit - On A. W. Moore's Criticism of Kant por Sebastian Gardner analyzes A.W. Moore's critique of Kant's transcendental idealism, arguing that Moore's charge of incoherence may be based on a misconstrual. This offers a valuable exploration of key debates within post-Kantian philosophy.

#9 Friedrich Wilhelm Joseph von Schelling: Introduction

Extension: PDF | 15 pages

Friedrich Wilhelm Joseph von Schelling: Introduction by Sebastian Gardner provides an overview of Schelling's philosophical development. It highlights his engagement with Kant and Fichte, and his exploration of nature, art, and religion, making it a valuable resource for understanding German Idealism.

#10 Transcendental Idealism and its Influence on Nineteenth Century Science

Extension: PDF | 15 pages

Transcendental Idealism and its Influence on Nineteenth Century Science by Michael E. Cuffaro analyzes Kant's doctrine and its impact on 19th-century science. It explores how Kant's ideas shaped developments in mathematical physics and life sciences, offering valuable insights.

German Idealism Books

If you want to discover the main topics concerning the philosophical school that emerged in Germany, we have brought you a series of German idealism books in PDF format.

German idealism was born at the end of the eighteenth century and the beginning of the nineteenth century, this current holds that the phenomenon is the object insofar as it is known, and the noun is the object as it would be in itself. Its main exponents are Kant, Fichte, Schelling, and Hegel.

This philosophical trend was born from the work of Immanuel Kant, closely related to Romanticism, the Enlightenment, the French Revolution, and the Napoleonic wars; consult the highlights of this movement in our books.

#1 Aesthetical Essays of Friedrich Schiller

Extension: PDF | 300 pages

Aesthetical Essays of Friedrich Schiller by Friedrich Schiller delves into the profound relationship between aesthetics, art, and human nature. This collection offers insights into the philosophical underpinnings of beauty and its impact on moral and intellectual development, making it essential reading for those seeking a deeper understanding of G...

#2 The phenomenology of mind

Extension: PDF | 299 pages

The phenomenology of mind por G. W. F. Hegel, explores the evolution of consciousness towards absolute knowledge. It's a profound journey through perception, self-awareness, and reason, revealing the core of German Idealism.

#3 Idealism and Realism in Early German Romanticism

Extension: PDF | 98 pages

Idealism and Realism in Early German Romanticism por Odne Nesheim Stenseth analyzes the complex interplay between idealism and realism in the works of Hölderlin, Novalis, and Schlegel. It offers a valuable exploration of their philosophical aims and positions, challenging traditional interpretations.

#4 Sartre, Intersubjectivity, and German Idealism

Extension: PDF | 39 pages

Sartre, Intersubjectivity, and German Idealism por Sebastian Gardner explores the deep connections between Sartre's philosophy and German Idealism, particularly Fichte and Schelling. This paper offers a valuable perspective, challenging common interpretations and highlighting the often-overlooked influences of early German Idealism on Sartre's thou...

#5 Schiller’s Aesthetic Republicanism

Extension: PDF | 38 pages

Schiller’s Aesthetic Republicanism por Douglas Moggach examines Schiller's political thought, particularly his republicanism, in the context of German Idealism. It highlights Schiller's unique contribution to the understanding of modernity and its challenges to political and social life.

#6 Johann Gottlieb Fichte and Freedom

Extension: PDF | 23 pages

Johann Gottlieb Fichte and Freedom by Jerzy Kochan explores Fichte's concept of freedom within German Idealism. It delves into his complex relationship with Kant and his influence on later philosophers, making it a valuable read for understanding Fichte's unique contribution.

#7 Introduction – Friedrich Schiller, a German Idealist?

Extension: PDF | 21 pages

Introduction - Friedrich Schiller, a German Idealist? by Henny Blomme, Laure Cahen-Maurel, David W. Wood presents a collection of articles investigating Schiller's connection to German Idealism. It offers foundational material to address whether Schiller should be considered a German idealist.

#8 Freedom and Determinism: A Framework

Extension: PDF | 17 pages

Freedom and Determinism: A Framework por Joseph Keim Campbell, Michael O’Rourke, and David Shier offers a structured exploration of freedom and determinism. This PDF presents key debates and modern theories, offering valuable insights for understanding complex philosophical concepts.

#9 Introduction: the impact of Idealism on religion (Article)

Extension: PDF | 10 pages

Introduction: the impact of Idealism on religion (Article) por Nicholas Adams explores the influence of German Idealism on religious thought, highlighting both its impact and areas where its influence was lacking. The article offers a valuable perspective on understanding the complex relationship between Idealism and religion.

British Idealism Books

British Idealism is a philosophical current that emerged in the late 19th century and developed in the United Kingdom. This school of thought is characterized by its focus on the critical analysis of human experience and the nature of consciousness.

Philosophers of British idealism, such as F.H. Bradley and T.H. Green, argued that reality is an organic, interconnected whole and that the human mind is capable of understanding the nature of reality through reasoning and introspection.

If you are interested in delving deeper into this topic, we invite you to enjoy the free books and articles on British idealism that we have made available to you.

#1 An Essay Concerning Human Understanding

Extension: PDF | 719 pages

An Essay Concerning Human Understanding by John Locke explores the origins of human knowledge and the limits of human comprehension. This foundational text in empiricism argues against innate ideas and emphasizes experience as the source of knowledge, making it crucial for understanding British Idealism's philosophical roots.

#2 A System of Logic

Extension: PDF | 604 pages

A System of Logic by John Stuart Mill explores the principles of reasoning, inference, and evidence. Mill's work delves into ratiocination, induction, and the role of language in thought, offering a rigorous analysis relevant to understanding British Idealism's philosophical foundations.

#3 A Treatise of Human Nature

Extension: PDF | 407 pages

A Treatise of Human Nature by David Hume explores the foundations of human understanding, passions, and morals. This classic work offers profound insights into the nature of human cognition and ethical principles.

#4 Enquiry Concerning the Principles of Morals

Extension: PDF | 165 pages

Enquiry Concerning the Principles of Morals by David Hume explores the foundations of morality, examining whether morals derive from reason or sentiment. This thought-provoking text offers a valuable perspective on ethical theory, making it a compelling read for those interested in the philosophical underpinnings of moral judgments.

#5 An Enquiry Concerning Human Understanding

Extension: PDF | 121 pages

An Enquiry Concerning Human Understanding by David Hume explores fundamental questions about human knowledge and its limitations. Hume's incisive analysis of perception, causation, and reasoning makes this a cornerstone of philosophical thought, prompting critical reflection on our understanding of the world.

#6 Utilitarianism

Extension: PDF | 27 pages

Utilitarianism by John Stuart Mill offers a profound exploration of moral philosophy, defining right actions by their tendency to promote happiness. This accessible text delves into core concepts, making it an invaluable resource for anyone interested in ethical reasoning and its historical context.

#7 British Idealism

Extension: PDF | 16 pages

British Idealism por Robert Stern explores the ethical theories of British Idealists like T.H. Green and F.H. Bradley. This PDF provides valuable insights into their attempts to reconcile Aristotelianism and Kantianism, offering a unique perspective on moral philosophy.

Idealist Aesthetics Articles

This philosophical current, which originated in the 18th century, focuses on the idea that beauty is an objective characteristic that can be studied and analyzed.

Idealist aesthetics focuses on the relationship between the work of art and the viewer, and how beauty can affect our emotions and thoughts. 

In addition, this philosophical current is closely related to the theory of knowledge, which means that it is also concerned with how we learn and understand the world around us. You can learn more with the following articles on idealist aesthetics.

#1 Kant’s Aesthetic Idealism (Article)

Extension: PDF | 9 pages

Kant's Aesthetic Idealism (Article) by Guenter Zoeller explores Kant's seminal work on art and beauty, delving into the complex relationship between knowledge and aesthetics. It illuminates Kant's perspective on how human understanding shapes our perception of beauty.

#2 Idealism from Kant to Hegel (Article)

Extension: PDF | 10 pages

Idealism from Kant to Hegel (Article) por Isaac Topete explores the critical engagement of Hegel with Kant's transcendental idealism, focusing on the limitations Hegel identifies in Kant's framework regarding sensibility, understanding, and the thing-in-itself. This is a great PDF to understand the historical development of aesthetic-idealist philo...

#3 Language, aesthetics and emotions in the work of the British idealists

Extension: PDF | 18 pages

Language, aesthetics and emotions in the work of the British idealists por Colin Tyler & James Connelly analyzes philosophical writings on these themes, highlighting insights often overlooked. It's a valuable exploration of British Idealism, shedding light on the interconnectedness of language, aesthetics, and emotions.

Here ends our selection of free Idealism books in PDF format. We hope you liked it and already have your next book!

If you found this list useful, do not forget to share it on your social networks. Remember that “Sharing is Caring”.

Do you want books on Philosophy in PDF format?