Realitätsnähe

Realitätsnähe is a German term that translates to "closeness to reality" or "realism." It is a concept often discussed in various fields, including philosophy, art, literature, and psychology. In essence, it refers to the degree to which something accurately reflects or represents the actual world as perceived or understood.

In philosophy, Realitätsnähe can relate to epistemological theories about how we gain knowledge and the certainty of our perceptions. It questions how closely our mental representations correspond to objective reality.

Within art and literature, Realitätsnähe is a measure of how believable or lifelike a depiction is. A work with high Realitätsnähe might strive for verisimilitude, depicting characters, settings, and events in a manner that aligns with common experience. Conversely, works with low Realitätsnähe might employ abstraction, fantasy, or surrealism, intentionally deviating from conventional representations of reality.

In psychology, the concept can be applied to an individual's perception of their own circumstances and the external world. A person with a strong sense of Realitätsnähe is generally considered to have an accurate understanding of their situation, their capabilities, and the objective facts around them. Conversely, a lack of Realitätsnähe might manifest as delusion, wishful thinking, or an inability to accept difficult truths. It is a crucial aspect of mental well-being and effective decision-making.