Words without actions are the assassins of idealism.
Sentiment: NEGATIVE
Much that passes as idealism is disguised hatred or disguised love of power.
But the egoist has no ideals, for the knowledge that his ideals are only his ideals, frees him from their domination. He acts for his own interest, not for the interest of ideals.
Idealism springs from deep feelings, but feelings are nothing without the formulated idea that keeps them whole.
A true and worthy ideal frees and uplifts a people; a false ideal imprisons and lowers.
Idealism, alas, does not protect one from ignorance, dogmatism, and foolishness.
The egoist is fooled by no ideals: he discards them or uses them, as may suit his own interest.
Idealism is the despot of thought, just as politics is the despot of will.
You see, idealism detached from action is just a dream. But idealism allied with pragmatism, with rolling up your sleeves and making the world bend a bit, is very exciting. It's very real. It's very strong.
The enemy of idealism is zealotry.
We know the ideal isn't where the action is.