In a world where creatures and ideas are constantly analyzed and altered, the concept of the "absolute" is elevated as the undeniable hallmark of originality.

Absolute Uniqueness and the Ideal State

In a world where creatures and ideas are constantly analyzed and altered, the concept of the "absolute" is elevated as the undeniable hallmark of originality. This notion suggests that every object, phenomenon, or quality possesses a unique core that cannot be reduced or broken down into constituent elements. Such a holistic unity transcends ordinary experience and takes the form of an ideal in which every detail is an unchanging and inimitable piece of the overall picture of perfection.

At the heart of this idea is the desire to see things exactly as they are—without extraneous layers that obscure their true essence. The ideal state becomes not just a theoretical model but a dynamic force that can guide empirical inquiry. It demonstrates how one can be both outside of time and connected to reality, emphasizing the importance of an immutable foundation on which our concept of perfection is built.

In conclusion, absolute individuality is not merely a characteristic but a critically important benchmark that reminds us of the finite and self-sufficient essence of each thing. Within this unity lies a power capable of transforming our views on ideals, opening up new horizons in the quest for truth and harmony.

What is meant by the term "absolutely," and how is it related to the ideal state or quality?

The concept of "absolutely" in this context refers to the indisputable, self-sufficient uniqueness and integrity of a thing, which cannot be reduced to anything else. In other words, when something is said to exist "absolutely," it is implied that its individuality or essence (what it is in and of itself) excludes any coincidence with anything else, remaining unchanging and unique. For example, one source states:

"Everything that exists and does not exist, the real and the conceivable, the possible and the impossible, the necessary and the accidental—in short, everything that is, is absolutely individual. The absolute individuality of a thing, or its very self, excludes any coincidence with anything at all. The very self, or the absolute individuality of a thing, is absolutely inexpressible. These three theses are proven by the simplest means. Let’s take the first thesis. Everything is individual, that is, it cannot be reduced to anything else." (source: link txt)

Regarding the ideal state or quality, this concept emphasizes the complete and holistic nature that goes beyond ordinary empirical experience. The ideal state is understood as something that simultaneously exceeds empirical reality while also serving as the starting point for empirical knowledge. In other words, the ideal is characterized by its capacity to exist both outside of time and predictably within the framework of experience, expressing absolute unity or completeness. This is evident in the fact that not only do empirically observable characteristics matter, but also the very idea of perfection presupposes the existence of that absolute, self-sufficient foundation toward which our conception of ideality aspires:

"There is no exception in the ideal of infinite progress, since infinity is only affirmed in the formula; the ideal state itself is inadvertently conceived in empirically limited terms: the potential infinity of approaching the ideal is combined with an unrecognizable relativization of the idea of actual infinity. In the inevitable relativization of the ideal— the main flaw of all three concepts, in varying degrees in each—it is so evident in the second, which tries to equate the ideal state with the present, that it does not even appear in its pure form: the present is acknowledged as the beginning of the ideal state. ... The ideal state is understood as surpassing the empirical while at the same time initiating it empirically." (source: link txt)

Thus, the concept of "absolutely" signifies that an object or quality possesses an indivisible and definitive originality that precludes the possibility of division or reduction to composite empirical characteristics. In the ideal state, it is precisely this absolute completeness, this integrity, that serves as the measure of perfection—a state in which contradictions are absent and where the empirical quality attains its final form, remaining unchanging and self-sufficient.

Supporting citation(s):
"Everything that exists and does not exist, the real and the conceivable, the possible and the impossible, the necessary and the accidental—in short, everything that is, is absolutely individual. The absolute individuality of a thing, or its very self, excludes any coincidence with anything at all. The very self, or the absolute individuality of a thing, is absolutely inexpressible. These three theses are proven by the simplest means. Let’s take the first thesis. Everything is individual, that is, it cannot be reduced to anything else." (source: link txt)

"There is no exception in the ideal of infinite progress, since infinity is only affirmed in the formula; the ideal state itself is inadvertently conceived in empirically limited terms: the potential infinity of approaching the ideal is combined with an unrecognizable relativization of the idea of actual infinity. ... The ideal state is understood as surpassing the empirical while at the same time initiating it empirically." (source: link txt)