pragmatism

American  

[prag-muh-tiz-uhm] / ˈpræg məˌtɪz əm /

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.

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pragmatism British  

/ 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

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pragmatism Cultural  

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.

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Usage

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.

Other Word Forms

• antipragmatism noun
• pragmatist noun
• pragmatistic adjective

Etymology

Origin of pragmatism

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

Example Sentences

In scores of conversations with voters over the past year, the sentiment that came through, above all, was a sense of practicality and pragmatism.

From Los Angeles Times

"The pretexts used to justify such actions are untenable. Ideological hostility has triumphed over businesslike pragmatism," it added.

From Barron's

This may sound ambitiously progressive, but speakers at the September launch emphasized pragmatism and concrete local projects to cut through the nation’s extreme polarization.

From Salon

Mr Hoyles said the decision to plant more than 18,000 olive trees on his farm had been driven by "pragmatism" but also because he "loves a challenge".

From BBC

The mood music has changed a bit around Rangers since then thanks to the stability and pragmatism Rohl has brought to the club, at least in the league, where he remains unbeaten.

From BBC

Related Words

• common sense
• good sense
• practicality
• realism
• usefulness
• utilitarianism