Pragmatic is a way of thinking that considers practicality in all decisions. Pragmatists are focused on getting things done and tend to make logical decisions instead of being swayed by emotions or fears. They may not think about the big picture like idealists, but they know what’s important to them.
They believe that reality is not static, but constantly changing and that action is the best way to change it. Pragmatists also have a more utilitarian view of truth. They believe that something is true only if it works or is useful, but they aren’t opposed to the ontological claims of religions for example.
The philosophy of pragmatism is broad and has many applications. It can be applied to the sciences, social work, and even politics. In science, pragmatism is applied to the epistemological issues of scientific research and the pragmatics of communication between scientists (Posner 2009).
It can be used in the humanities as well. For instance, sociologists have applied pragmatism to the study of culture and communication. They have looked at how people learn languages and the ways that language is used to communicate ideas and information. This includes how body language, gestures, and tone of voice affect the meaning of a message. Sociologists have also studied pragmatics to understand how cultures evolve, how beliefs and values are transmitted, and how social norms develop.
Pragmatists have also applied pragmatism to the fields of ethics, education, and political philosophy. They have been critical of traditional philosophical doctrines such as Platonism, idealism, and rationalism. They have also criticized the philosophical movement known as relativism.
A pragmatic approach is often more efficient than a dogmatic approach because it avoids wasting time arguing about whether or not something is right or wrong. The pragmatic method also reduces the risk of making a bad decision by considering multiple possibilities and alternatives.
For example, when choosing a politician to vote for in times of crisis, pragmatic voters are more likely to look for a candidate who will remain calm and think logically under pressure. Idealists, on the other hand, can be swayed by fear or emotions and may not think about the long-term implications of their decisions.
The philosophical school of pragmatism has had several critics throughout its history. A number of prominent writers, including Charles Sanders Peirce, sociologist and philosopher William James, pragmatist and educator John Dewey, and journalist and historian Chauncey Wright, are among the founders of this distinctly American philosophy. It is sometimes referred to as the Chicago school because of the group of scholars in the city who developed it. Despite these critics, pragmatism continues to be a vital part of the philosophy and research community.
