pragmatism

[prag-muh-tiz-uhm]

noun

1. character or conduct that emphasizes practicality.

2. a philosophical movement or system having various forms, but generally stressing practical consequences as constituting the essential criterion in determining meaning, truth, or value.

pragmatism

/ ˈpræɡməˌtɪzəm /

noun

1. action or policy dictated by consideration of the immediate practical consequences rather than by theory or dogma

2. philosophy

   1. the doctrine that the content of a concept consists only in its practical applicability

   2. the doctrine that truth consists not in correspondence with the facts but in successful coherence with experience See also instrumentalism

pragmatism

1. An approach to philosophy, primarily held by American philosophers, which holds that the truth or meaning of a statement is to be measured by its practical (i.e., pragmatic) consequences. William James and John Dewey were pragmatists.

Other Word Forms

• pragmatistic adjective
• antipragmatism noun
• pragmatist noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of pragmatism¹

First recorded in 1860–65; pragmat(ic) + -ism

Example Sentences

In Mr. Payne’s estimation, Franco was the “most successful dictator of modern times,” one whose “creative pragmatism” over 36 years produced stability and, eventually, transformative economic growth.

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Gold’s price is representative of a market that is tempering optimism with pragmatism.

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Mr. Sharaa’s past warrants skepticism, which makes concrete signs of pragmatism all the more important today.

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Anyone who reads the whole speech can see the Gipper favored free trade, with rare exceptions for political pragmatism and national security.

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Will his newfound pragmatism continue after the vote?

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Related Words

• common sense 
• good sense www.thesaurus.com
• practicality 
• realism 
• usefulness www.thesaurus.com
• utilitarianism 

When To Use

What does pragmatism mean?

Pragmatism is a way of dealing with problems or situations that focuses on practical approaches and solutions—ones that will work in practice, as opposed to being ideal in theory.The word pragmatism is often contrasted with the word idealism, which means based on or having high principles or ideals. Pragmatism, on the other hand, is based on real-world conditions or circumstances—considering what can realistically be done as opposed to the best theoretical course of action.More specifically, pragmatism can refer to the philosophical movement or approach that emphasizes practical consequences in the determination of meaning, truth, or value.The adjective form pragmatic means practical, especially when making decisions. The word pragmatist can refer to a person who prefers to act pragmatically, or to a philosopher who adheres to the movement of pragmatism.Example: We need a candidate who values pragmatism and can get things done in the real world—not some idealist who will never compromise.