What does it mean to be a true idealist?

In my book it said Roosevelt considered himself to be a true idealist, not President Wilson.

There are many different interpretations of true idealism. Check this article.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Idealism

Thank You Very Much

You're very welcome.

To understand what it means to be a true idealist, we need to break down the term and contextualize it in relation to the beliefs and actions of the individuals you mentioned.

1. Idealism: Idealism is a philosophical belief that emphasizes the importance of ideas, values, and principles in shaping our reality. Idealists tend to prioritize their beliefs and values over practical considerations.

2. True idealist: Being a true idealist means fully committing to idealistic principles and consistently applying them in one's actions and decision-making. It implies a deep dedication and unwavering belief in the power of ideas to bring about positive change.

Now, let's examine the specific context of Roosevelt and Wilson:

Theodore Roosevelt, the 26th President of the United States, was known for his progressive policies and his belief in using the power of government to enact social and economic reforms. He championed initiatives such as trust-busting, conservation, and workers' rights. Roosevelt saw himself as a true idealist because he passionately embraced his progressive ideals and actively pursued them during his presidency.

Woodrow Wilson, the 28th President of the United States, was also a progressive leader. He advocated for social justice, economic reform, and the establishment of the League of Nations. However, Wilson's approach to governance was more pragmatic and focused on the practical implementation of policies to achieve his desired outcomes. While Wilson shared some of Roosevelt's progressive goals, his approach was less rooted in idealism and more pragmatic in nature.

In summary, Roosevelt considered himself a true idealist because he fully dedicated himself to his progressive ideals and consistently fought for their implementation. Wilson, while also a progressive, took a more pragmatic approach to governing.