Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
idolum
noun
/ˈaɪ.də.ləm/
Definition
A type of erroneous belief or misunderstanding, often used to refer to the misplaced or exaggerated worship of an image or representation.
Examples
- The ancient Greeks considered material idols to be idols of the mind.
- Detecting idolum in one’s reasoning can lead to clearer thought processes.
Meaning
In philosophy, particularly in the works of Francis Bacon, an idolum refers to false notions or misconceptions that obscure understanding and reason.
Synonyms
- False belief
- Misconception
- Illusion
