Question

What is the opposite of someone who believes in ideals?

Answer 1

a rationalist

Answer 2

I think Pessimist would be better than a Realist. The realist is just someone who is practical and who considers all possible outcomes, not just the good outcomes. A pessimist always banks on negative outcomes. . . A nihilist could be an opposite too. One who doesn't believe in anything.

Answer 3

A cynic.

Answer 4

At first I would have said realist, but prefer pragmatist instead. Someone who takes a pragmatic approach to things doesn't base his/ her decisions on ideals but rather looks at the situation and bases his /her actions on the most practical, safe and often efficient means.