Pragmatism as a Movement

Pragmatism is a philosophical movement that emphasizes the practical consequences of ideas as the main way to evaluate their meaning and truth. It suggests that beliefs and theories should be judged based on how well they work in real life, rather than by abstract principles alone. Originating in the late 19th century with thinkers like Charles Peirce, William James, and John Dewey, pragmatism encourages focusing on practical results and solutions, promoting flexible thinking that adapts to new experiences and evidence. It has influenced areas like education, law, and problem-solving, valuing useful ideas over purely theoretical considerations.