eszme

Eszme is a Hungarian noun that denotes an idea, concept, or guiding principle. It is used to describe a general notion or a system of related ideas rather than a single concrete thought. In philosophy, politics, and cultural discourse, eszme often refers to a doctrine, worldview, or intellectual program that helps organize thinking and action.

The term carries a sense of abstraction and coherence, emphasizing unity among a group of ideas. It is commonly found in compounds such as eszmerendszer (a system of ideas) and eszmevilág (a worldview or ideological landscape). Depending on context, eszme can be used descriptively to outline a particular line of thought or critically to challenge its coherence or implications. In everyday language, it can express broad, aspirational notions, such as a social or political eszme, without necessarily endorsing them.

Differences from related terms include nuance and connotation. Fogalom is a neutral concept or idea, often focusing on definition rather than program, while ötlet refers to a more concrete or inventive thought. Ideológia is a loaded term with explicit political commitments, whereas eszme is typically broader and can be used in both neutral and evaluative ways.

In contemporary Hungarian usage, eszme remains common in academic writing, journalism, and literary criticism, where authors describe overarching intellectual tendencies or the central ideas behind movements, theories, or artistic schools.