What does solipsism mean?
Solipsism names the philosophical idea that the self is the only reality that exists, or at least that everything beyond the self depends on one's own perceptions. It became associated especially with questions about whether an external world can be known independently of the mind. In literature and everyday criticism, the word can also describe extreme self-absorption, suggesting that a person has become enclosed in a private world of personal concerns. In this secondary use, solipsism is more critical than simply saying that someone is selfish: it implies a profound failure to recognise other people's independent reality. The word is useful because it links an abstract philosophical problem with familiar patterns of isolation and self-centred perception. It can be used seriously in discussions of consciousness and reality, or more figuratively when describing a character whose concern with themselves excludes the rest of the world.
nounSolipsism is the philosophical doctrine that the self is the only reality, or that reality is ultimately determined by the individual's perceptions. In literary and everyday use, it can refer to extreme self-absorption or a self-centred worldview.
- The philosophical doctrine that the self is the only reality, or that reality is fundamentally subjective.
- Extreme self-absorption or a self-centred way of seeing the world.
"The novel's narrator descends into solipsism, treating other people as projections of his own thoughts."
"The philosopher argued that acknowledging an external world would undermine a consistent solipsism."
"Her constant self-absorption seemed to her friends like a form of solipsism."
The plural is uncommon but is used when referring to different forms or instances of the doctrine.
"The course compares philosophical solipsisms that differ in how they treat the external world."
At its most radical, solipsism argues that everything else may be a dream.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does solipsism come from?
Solipsism was formed in English from Latin solus, meaning “alone,” and ipse, meaning “self.” The combined sense reflects the idea of the self standing alone as the sole reality. The term became established in English philosophical usage during the 19th century and has cognates in other European languages; related English words include sole, solitary, solitude, and solo.
Related word forms
How solipsism is actually used
The term is most common in philosophical and literary contexts. It is more intellectually serious than the everyday word for selfishness, although it often carries a critical implication of isolation or excessive self-focus.
Easily confused with solipsism
Egocentrism is the habit of viewing situations primarily from one's own perspective, whereas solipsism is the stronger philosophical claim that the self is the only reality.