Introducing Pragmatism: A Tool for Rethinking Philosophy

Pragmatism is a knowledge and philosophy approach that rejects outmoded conceptions of objectivity while avoiding relativism and subjectivism. It focuses on the process of inquiry and the development of concepts based on their practical effects. This book discusses classical and contemporary pragmatists, their contributions, and applications to various philosophical issues, such as law, feminism, and race and racism.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 310 pages
Publication date: 31 August 2021
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Pragmatism is a unique approach to knowledge and philosophy that rejects outdated conceptions of objectivity while avoiding relativism and subjectivism. It focuses on the process of inquiry rather than abstract justifications meant to appease skeptics. According to pragmatists, understanding the world is a creative human enterprise, where we fashion our concepts in terms of how they affect us practically, including in future inquiry.

This book fully illuminates that enterprise and the resulting radical rethinking of basic philosophical conceptions like truth, reality, and reason. Author Cornelis de Waal helps the reader recognize, understand, and assess classical and current pragmatist contributions—from Charles S. Peirce to Cornel West—evaluate existing views from a pragmatist angle, formulate pragmatist critiques, and develop a pragmatist viewpoint on a specific issue.

The book discusses:

Classical pragmatists, including Peirce, James, Dewey, and Addams;
Contemporary figures, including Rorty, Putnam, Haack, and West;
Connections with other twentieth-century approaches, including phenomenology, critical theory, and logical positivism;
Peirces pragmatic maxim and its relation to James' Will to Believe;
Applications to philosophy of law, feminism, and issues of race and racism.

Pragmatism offers a valuable perspective on understanding the world and developing a more practical and effective approach to knowledge and philosophy. By rejecting abstract justifications and focusing on the practical effects of our concepts, pragmatism can help us navigate the complexities of modern life and make better decisions. Whether you are interested in philosophy, law, or social issues, this book provides a wealth of insights and ideas that will deepen your understanding and help you achieve your goals.

Weight: 480g
Dimension: 151 x 228 x 22 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781138367180