The concept of abstraction means moving away from the concrete to refer to general and theoretical ideas.

Abstract thinking or concepts step back from concrete experiences or physical existence, typically thinking in generalized forms or seeking essential characteristics or common elements beyond specific cases.

This plays an important role in philosophical thought and is a crucial process for humans to understand the world.

Abstraction is the process of grasping the common properties or essential characteristics of the concrete objects or events we experience in daily life.

For example, when we abstract the concept of 'tree' from various types of trees, we form the concept of 'tree' based on the common characteristics (trunk, branches, leaves, etc.) that trees possess. This extracts a general concept about all trees, not just a specific one.

Abstract thinking is distinct from concrete thinking. Concrete thinking deals with objects and events that actually exist or can be experienced. In contrast, abstract thinking goes beyond such concrete objects or events to consider broader and more general concepts or principles.

In philosophy, abstract concepts play a key role when dealing with important themes such as definition, existence, truth, morality, and freedom. For instance, the concept of justice requires abstract thinking that seeks to explore what justice is as a general principle beyond specific actions in particular cases. Philosophy aims to understand the essence of the world and delve deeper into human experience through such abstract thinking.

Abstract thinking also plays an important role in mathematics. In mathematics, concrete objects like numbers or geometric shapes are abstracted to explore the relationships or principles between them.

For example, behind specific numbers like 1, 2, and 3 lies the abstract concept of number, which leads to the development of mathematical theories. In ethics, concepts like 'justice' or 'happiness' must be abstracted to universal principles beyond the experiences of specific individuals.

Here, we seek general norms regarding what actions are just and what constitutes a happy life, beyond specific situations.

Abstract thinking is essential for humans to pursue universal truths or ideal principles beyond the concrete world. However, this way of thinking can sometimes drift away from concrete reality.

If abstract concepts become overly theoretical and idealistic, the connection to the real world may weaken. Therefore, philosophical thought involves a process of finding balance between abstract concepts and concrete reality.

In conclusion, the meaning of abstraction refers to a way of thinking that deals with general and essential concepts beyond concrete experiences or realistic cases.

In philosophy, abstract thinking is essential for deeply exploring important issues, allowing us to develop a broader range of principles and theories.