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

The park is simple, elegant and timeless, a brilliant blend of artistry and pragmatism.

From Seattle Times

Driven by a combination of pragmatism and opportunism, politicians leveraged military forces to bolster their governments as de facto police forces, state bureaucracies and electoral tribunals.

From Los Angeles Times

He comes down on the side of pragmatism.

From BBC

Cleverly playing with our sympathies, Gaynord, in his feature debut, stirs upper-class twittery and working-class pragmatism into scenes prickling with ambiguity.

From New York Times

Whether pragmatism will extend to a re-establishment of diplomatic relations is unknown: Saudi and UAE authorities did not respond to Reuters requests for comment regarding Afghanistan and the Taliban.

From Reuters

Related Words

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