Pragmatism Commentary by Claude
nishio.iconExplain the story (attached: Pragmatism, by William James)
claude.iconThis is the full text of the book "pragmatism" by William James. Pragmatism is a school of philosophy developed by James and others in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
The flow of this document is as follows
Discusses two opposing temperaments in philosophy (tough-mindedness and tender-mindedness) and suggests that pragmatism can be the mediator.
Pragmatism's methodology is explained. It judges theory by its usefulness in the real world, and argues that truth means "coming to terms with reality.
Applying a pragmatist perspective to some metaphysical issues, such as realism and free will.
The Problem of Unity and Plurality in the World, arguing that pragmatism does not seek absolute unity, but emphasizes Empirical Ties.
The relationship between pragmatism and common sense is discussed and the affinity between the two is pointed out.
He elaborates on pragmatism's view of truth and argues that truth is verifiable and useful ideas.
Discusses the relationship between pragmatism and anthropocentrism, arguing that human experience and values define the way the world is.
He discusses the relationship between pragmatism and religion and concludes that pluralistic and moralistic atheism is consistent with the pragmatist position.
Overall, James presents pragmatism as a new way of thinking that moves beyond traditional philosophical oppositions and emphasizes experience and practice.
nishio.iconWhat are the important aspects of the contemporary situation?
claude.iconImportant perspectives of pragmatism that are still relevant today include the following.
The attitude of evaluating theories and ideas by their usefulness and practical consequences in the real world is also a part of the modern problem-solving way of thinking.
[A pluralistic worldview, which emphasizes experiential connections rather than absolute truth and unity, is more appropriate for today's globalized and increasingly diverse society.
The anthropocentric position, which emphasizes human experience and values, is also relevant to the contemporary issues of respect for the individual and coexistence of diverse values in a democratic society.
The advocacy of a flexible way of thinking that is not bound by dogma is also important as an intellectual attitude to adapt to today's rapidly changing society.
Overcoming the conflict between science and religion and taking an atheistic position in an empirical sense presents one ideological option in today's increasingly secularized society, where the influence of religion cannot be ignored.
This attitude of viewing philosophy as something that has contact with the real world resonates with the modern tendency to seek practicality and sociality in philosophy.
Thus, many of pragmatism's arguments, although proposed more than 100 years ago, are also deeply relevant to the challenges of contemporary society. Reading the classic texts can provide insights for the present day.
Empirical Ties
Aristotelian position in the empirical sense
Tough Mind and Tender Mind
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