solipsism
Solipsism is the philosophical theory that only one's own mind is sure to exist. It suggests that everything else—the external world, other people, and physical objects—is merely a projection or a figment of one's own consciousness, lacking any independent reality. In common usage, the term is often applied to people who seem excessively self-absorbed or who act as if their own perspective is the only one that matters. It is a dense, intellectual word usually found in academic or literary contexts rather than casual conversation.
In conversation
Discussing a self-centered character in a book
I find the protagonist's solipsism incredibly frustrating.
I find the protagonist's solipsism incredibly frustrating.
It's definitely a hard trait to root for, but it makes the internal monologue fascinating.
It's definitely a hard trait to root for, but it makes the internal monologue fascinating.
Used to describe a character's extreme self-absorption.
Philosophy class debate
Does the theory of solipsism hold any water in modern physics?
Does the theory of solipsism hold any water in modern physics?
Not really, though it remains a classic thought experiment for consciousness.
Not really, though it remains a classic thought experiment for consciousness.
Used in its formal, philosophical context.
Examples
The character lived in a state of total solipsism.
The character lived in a state of total solipsism.
He was accused of solipsism because he never considered anyone else's feelings.
He was accused of solipsism because he never considered anyone else's feelings.
The epistemological challenge of solipsism remains a central problem in metaphysics.
The epistemological challenge of solipsism remains a central problem in metaphysics.
