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.
apprenticeship / doctrine
'die Lehre' and 'das Gedankengut' can both talk about the ideas and beliefs of a person or group. 'die Lehre' more often means an organized system with fixed principles, for example in religion, philosophy, or science. 'das Gedankengut' means the body of thought—the full set of ideas that is typical of a group, time period, or movement. It often sounds broader and less strictly organized. Learners may confuse the words because both occur in the context of ideologies and worldviews. When the rules or principles are clearly explained as a system, 'Lehre' fits better; when you are talking about the many ideas of a group, 'Gedankengut' is more suitable.
Das Gedankengut der Gruppe zeigt sich in ihren Reden und Plakaten.
The group's body of thought is reflected in its speeches and posters.
Für die Prüfung liest du einen Text über die Lehre dieser politischen Bewegung.
For the exam, you read a text about the doctrine of this political movement.