Meaning: Josiah Royce, an American philosopher, made significant contributions to the field of idealism, a philosophical perspective that emphasizes the importance of ideas and the mind. In the quote provided, Royce addresses the concept of idealism and its two key aspects: the preparatory nature of the first aspect and the deeper problem of thought related to the absolute Self in the second aspect.

The first aspect of idealism, as mentioned by Royce, is presented as preparatory. This suggests that it serves as a foundation or preliminary stage in the understanding of idealism. In the context of philosophical idealism, the preparatory aspect may refer to the initial recognition of the significance of ideas and the mind in shaping our understanding of reality. This notion aligns with the broader philosophical tradition of idealism, which often emphasizes the primacy of ideas and consciousness in shaping our perceptions and experiences.

Moving on to the second aspect, Royce describes it as the deeper problem of thought within the framework of idealism. This aspect, according to Royce, is concerned with the notion of the absolute Self. Here, the absolute Self can be understood as the ultimate, indivisible essence of an individual's consciousness or being. In the realm of idealism, the concept of the absolute Self carries profound philosophical implications, as it delves into questions about the nature of selfhood, consciousness, and the relationship between the individual mind and the external world.

Royce's reference to Kant in the quote is significant, as it acknowledges the influential role of Immanuel Kant, a prominent figure in the history of philosophy, in shaping the exploration of the absolute Self within idealism. Kant's philosophical inquiries, particularly in his Critique of Pure Reason, laid the groundwork for examining the nature of the self and its relationship to knowledge and perception. By invoking Kant, Royce establishes a historical and intellectual lineage for the exploration of the absolute Self within the context of idealism.

Furthermore, Royce's mention of the period "from Kant, until the present time" highlights the enduring relevance and ongoing intellectual engagement with the deeper problem of thought associated with the absolute Self. This acknowledgment underscores the enduring nature of philosophical inquiry, as thinkers across generations have grappled with the complexities and implications of idealism, especially concerning the nature of the self and its place in the broader philosophical landscape.

In conclusion, Josiah Royce's quote encapsulates the foundational and profound dimensions of idealism, particularly in relation to the preparatory nature of the first aspect and the deeper problem of thought concerning the absolute Self. Through his brief yet thought-provoking statement, Royce invites readers to contemplate the enduring philosophical inquiries that have shaped our understanding of consciousness, selfhood, and the nature of reality within the framework of idealism.