body of thought
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body of thought
The totality of ideas, concepts, and beliefs that are characteristic of a person, a group, or an era. The term is often used to describe ideologies or worldviews.
In der Schule haben wir uns mit dem Gedankengut der antiken Philosophen beschäftigt.
At school, we studied the body of thought of the ancient philosophers.
The word is made up of 'Gedanken' (thoughts) and 'Gut' (property). Here, 'Gut' does not mean 'good' in the sense of quality, but 'property' or 'possessions', similar to 'Kulturgut' (cultural asset). So 'Gedankengut' is literally the 'possession of thoughts' of a group or era.
Das Gedankengut der Aufklärung hat Europa nachhaltig verändert.
The body of thought of the Enlightenment changed Europe in a lasting way.
'Gedankengut' is a collective term and is used almost exclusively in the singular. There is no plural form.
Sein gesamtes Gedankengut basiert auf den Schriften eines einzigen Autors.
His entire body of thought is based on the writings of a single author.
The term is often used to describe ideologies, frequently with a detached or critical attitude. It is especially often found in connection with political or extremist movements.
Die Organisation distanziert sich klar von rechtsextremem Gedankengut.
The organization clearly distances itself from far-right ideology.
ideology
Ideologie and Gedankengut can both refer to political or social beliefs. Ideologie emphasizes a closed, systematic, and often critically judged body of doctrine, whereas Gedankengut more neutrally sums up the characteristic ideas of a person or group. Gedankengut is therefore more appropriate for an open collection of beliefs.
Das Gedankengut der Bewegung beeinflusst viele Menschen, ohne ein geschlossenes Programm zu bilden.
The movement's body of thought influences many people without forming a closed program.
Die Ideologie der Bewegung fordert von ihren Anhängern klare politische Veränderungen.
The movement's ideology demands clear political changes from its supporters.
