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An abstract concept is an idea that people can understand that has no physical form. The ability to identify, understand and communicate abstract concepts is a foundational element of human intelligence. It is a mistake to think that all abstract concepts aren't real as they can be documented with evidence. The following are illustrative examples of an abstract concept.
LanguageAll natural languages have words for abstract concepts. For example, the word freedom is a completely abstract concept that can't be directly perceived or measured. Learning a new language allows an individual to acquire new abstract concepts and can result in new thought processes.Civilization & SocietyCivilizations and societies are build upon abstract concepts such as the idea of civility.
CultureCulture is based on abstractions such as the idea of a tradition.MathematicsMathematics is mostly based on abstract concepts such as infinity or zero. The word mathematics itself is a completely abstract concept.Information TechnologyInformation technology and computing concepts are mostly abstract such as the idea of cloud computing or artificial intelligence.
BusinessBusiness concepts such as quality, automation and innovation are abstract and flexible concepts that can be defined differently from one firm to the next.MarketingMarketing basics such as the idea of a brand. Brands can be extremely valuable with this value completely based on customer perceptions and recognition of brand symbols.
ScienceFoundational concepts of science such as time, events and causation. Likewise, elements of the scientific method such as a hypothesis, experiment or control are abstract concepts.EducationEducation is an abstraction based on other abstractions such as thinking, ideas, creativity and experience.
Architecture & DesignArchitecture and design have a rich culture of abstraction that include styles, philosophies, methods and goals that are all completely intangible. For example, the idea of color harmony, dominance or negative space.ArtAbstract concepts in art should not be confused with abstract art. Abstract art is a depiction of an abstract concept such an emotion that has no physical form. Abstract concepts in art include methods, genres, interpretations and philosophies. For example, the idea of art for art's sake is an abstraction.
CommunicationCommunication concepts such as storytelling, humor and influencing.SocialSocial concepts such as status, kindness or coolness.FictionFiction is free to invent new abstract concepts. In some cases, abstract concepts from fiction, particularly science fiction, become real with time. In this way, fiction plays a role in inventing the future.|
| Type | | | Definition (1) | An idea that has no defining physical form. | | Definition (2) | An entity or generalization that is considered real or potentially real that can not be directly confirmed with the senses. | | Related Concepts | |
Thinking
This is the complete list of articles we have written about thinking.
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An overview of thinking with examples.
The definition of introspection with examples.
An overview of critical thinking with examples.
The definition of skepticism with examples.
The definition of abstract thinking with examples.
The definition of imagination with examples.
The definition of visual thinking with examples.
The definition of realism with examples.
The definition of pragmatism with examples.
A list of thinking approaches and types.
An overview of nostalgia with examples.
The definition of intrapersonal with examples.
The definition of paradox with examples.
The definition of rational choice theory with examples.
The principles of positive thinking.
A list of common emotions.
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