Pragmatism - William James

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'Pragmatism' contains a series of public lectures held by William James in Boston 1906–7. James provides a popularizing outline of his view of philosophical pragmatism while making highly rhetorical and entertaining lashes towards rationalism and other competing schools of thought. James is especially concerned with the pragmatic view of truth. True beliefs should be defined as, according to James, beliefs that can successfully assist people in their everyday life. This is claimed to not be relativism. That reality exists is argued to be a fact true beyond the human subject. James argues, nevertheless, that people select which parts of reality are made relevant and how they are understood to relate to each other. Charles Sanders Peirce, widely considered to be the founder of pragmatism, eventually chose to separate himself intellectually from James, renaming his own theory to ‘pragmaticism’. View our full collection of podcasts at our website: https://www.solgoodmedia.com or YouTube channel: www.solgood.org/subscribe This is a Librivox Recording. All Librivox recordings are in the public domain.

William James

Jul 21, 2026 LATEST EPISODE
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Pragmatism - William James

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 29, 2026 388:24

"Pragmatism" by William James presents a compelling exploration of philosophical pragmatism through a series of engaging public lectures delivered in Boston between 1906 and 1907. James critiques rationalism and other competing philosophies while emphasizing the pragmatic conception of truth: beliefs that are useful and applicable in everyday life. This perspective challenges the notion of relativism, asserting that while reality exists independently of human perception, individuals shape their understanding of it through selective relevance. The enduring themes of practical truth and the dynamic relationship between beliefs and reality resonate strongly today, reminding us that the value of ideas lies in their ability to enhance our lived experiences. By providing a clear and entertaining outline of pragmatism, James invites listeners to reflect on how their beliefs can be both meaningful and functional in navigating the complexities of life.

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