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Jamesian pragmatism

Jamesian pragmatism, developed by philosopher William James, views ideas and beliefs as tools for navigating life. It suggests that the truth of an idea depends on its practical effects—if it helps us understand and succeed in our experiences, it's considered true. Rather than seeking absolute certainty, James emphasizes that ideas are judged by their usefulness and impact on our actions. Essentially, truth is seen as flexible and evolving, shaped by how well ideas work in real life. This approach encourages open-mindedness and adapting beliefs based on their real-world consequences.