It has been interesting seeing how list-members variously interpret idée
fixe.
Of course, the word is French, and has passed into probably every European
language with a slightly different nuance.
I can assure you all, however, that accusing someone of an idée fixe is used
to native English speakers to designate someone mentally deranged:
http://education. yahoo.com/ reference/ dictionary/ entry/idee+ fixe
It means not just a fixed idea but an idea held against evidence against it
or with complete lack of evidence.
Therefore, it is an aspersion against the person who holds it.
A strongly held idea is simply a conviction.
Patrick
****GK: This is just your view what "idee fixe" means in English. Not everyone shares it. You're beginning to have an "idee fixe" about the meaning of "idee fixe" (:=))) . Relax.****