The Metaphysical Absolutizing of the Ideal: Hedwig Conrad-Martius’ Criticism of Husserl’s Idealism

Abstract

This article discusses the main arguments of Hedwig Conrad-Martius (HCM) against the worldview (Weltanschauung) of idealism in connection to her phenomenological idea of reality. The discussion focuses on her most far-reaching critical argument concerning the damage caused by idealism to the possibility for metaphysics by turning to the real (das wirkliche) into the ideal (Ideelles) and thereby reducing reality to an idea. This article analyzes HCM’s understanding of the evolution of idealism and of her criticism regarding the metaphysical absolutizing of the ideal in idealism. Subsequently, her response to idealism will be illuminated. HCM attempts to rehabilitate the facticity (Faktizität) of real reality (wirkliche Wirklichkeit) within metaphysics.