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Realism, in philosophy and the arts, refers to a broad range of theories and movements that emphasize the importance of observable facts, concrete experience, and material conditions over abstract ideas or idealistic constructs. The term is applied across multiple disciplines, including philosophy, political theory, literature, and film, each with distinct interpretations and applications.

In philosophy, realism is often contrasted with idealism, which posits that reality is fundamentally mental or spiritual in nature. Realists argue that the world exists independently of human perception and thought, and that knowledge is derived from direct observation and empirical evidence. This perspective is foundational in fields like science, where theories are tested against measurable phenomena. Philosophers such as Aristotle and Thomas Aquinas are often cited as early proponents of realism, particularly in their emphasis on the tangible and observable aspects of existence.

In political theory, realism focuses on the practical and often harsh realities of international relations, such as power dynamics, national interests, and the pursuit of security. Realist thinkers, including Niccolò Machiavelli and later theorists like Hans Morgenthau, contend that political behavior is driven by self-interest and the struggle for power, rather than moral or ethical ideals. This approach critiques utopian or idealistic visions of governance, advocating instead for pragmatic and often cynical assessments of statecraft.

In literature and film, realism seeks to depict life as it is lived, avoiding romanticized or exaggerated portrayals. Realist works often explore social issues, economic struggles, and the complexities of human behavior within specific historical and cultural contexts. Writers like Leo Tolstoy and Émile Zola, as well as filmmakers such as John Ford and the Italian Neorealists, are associated with this movement, which gained prominence in the 19th and early 20th centuries as a response to the idealism of earlier periods.

While realism varies in its specific manifestations, its core principle remains consistent: an insistence on the primacy of concrete reality over abstraction, whether in understanding the world, shaping political action, or portraying human experience.