pragmatism
Origin of pragmatism
OTHER WORDS FROM pragmatism
prag·ma·tis·tic, adjectivean·ti·prag·ma·tism, nounWords nearby pragmatism
MORE ABOUT PRAGMATISM
What does pragmatism mean?
Pragmatism is a way of dealing with problems or situations that focuses on practical approaches and solutionsâones 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 circumstancesâconsidering 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 worldânot some idealist who will never compromise.
Where does pragmatism come from?
The first records of the word pragmatism come from the 1800s. It ultimately derives from the Greek pragmatikĂłs, meaning âpractical,â from pragma, meaning âact,â from prÄÌssein, âto do.â The words practical and praxis derive from the same root.
People considered idealistic typically try to achieve the best-case scenarioâthe one based on their ideals. Such idealists are sometimes told they should try pragmatism, meaning they should focus on the realistic options or courses of action. Of course, many people navigate life with a balance of pragmatism and idealism: sometimes they compromise, and sometimes they stick to their principles no matter what.
Pragmatism isnât always contrasted with idealism. Sometimes, itâs just used to refer to a practical, logical, or sensible way of doing things.
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What are some other forms related to pragmatism?
- pragmatist (noun)
- pragmatic (adjective)
What are some words that share a root or word element with pragmatism?Â
What are some words that often get used in discussing pragmatism?
How is pragmatism used in real life?
Pragmatism is commonly used in a positive way in the context of choices or actions that are considered practical and reasonable. Itâs often used in the context of political positions or actions.
I wish we wouldnât conflate âcomplete lack of imaginationâ with âcritical thinking and pragmatismâ
— josie duffy rice (@jduffyrice) June 13, 2020
Is pragmatism really pragmatism if you continually try to solve problems with solutions that have already shown to be ineffective?
Just a thought.
— Jonathan Braylock (@jonbraylock) June 10, 2020
Art should never be bound by pragmatism.
— Jonathan R Johnson (@walks_among_us) June 10, 2020
Try using pragmatism!
Which of the following words is LEAST like to describe an action thatâs considered an example of pragmatism?
A. realistic
B. sensible
C. utilitarian
D. idealistic
How to use pragmatism in a sentence
British Dictionary definitions for pragmatism
- the doctrine that the content of a concept consists only in its practical applicability
- the doctrine that truth consists not in correspondence with the facts but in successful coherence with experienceSee also instrumentalism
Derived forms of pragmatism
pragmatist, noun, adjectivepragmatistic, adjectiveCultural definitions for pragmatism
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.