Final answer:
Pragmatism is a philosophical tradition that values practical outcomes and experiences, emphasizing that thoughts are tools for problem-solving and action. Renowned pragmatists like James, Dewey, and Peirce highlight the importance of ideas being tested in human experiences. The pragmatic philosophy includes a distinctive theory of truth and a flexible approach to ethics.
Step-by-step explanation:
Pragmatism is a philosophical approach that values practical experience and outcomes in the assessment of ideas and beliefs. It originated in the United States in the late 19th century, primarily associated with philosophers William James, John Dewey, and Charles Sanders Peirce. Pragmatists view philosophical concepts such as knowledge, language, and meaning through the lens of their practical applications and successes. The core belief structure of pragmatism revolves around the idea that thought is a tool for problem-solving. Pragmatism emphasizes testing ideas through human experiences and stresses the importance of adapting to a changing universe rather than relying on unchanging dogmatic principles.
The pragmatic theory of truth holds that truths are essentially ideas that lead to satisfactory practical results and that morality evolves from our habits, which are shaped by social practices and the need for continual revision in light of new experiences.
In terms of ethical considerations, pragmatism rejects the idea of absolute moral principles, instead emphasizing the importance of deliberation and the recognition that moral insight arises from experience. The pragmatic approach to morality is not uniform, acknowledges the social nature of moral practices, and sees moral progress as emerging through dialogue and practical engagement.