What is pragmatism and how to use it?

December 17, 2019

Hello, dear readers of the KtoNaNovenkogo.ru blog. In 2011, according to the American Merriam-Webster Dictionary, the concept of “pragmatic” became the word of the year.

This conclusion was made based on online queries. Their impressive number confirmed not only the popularity of the concept, but also the gaps in understanding its essence.

Despite the prevalence of the word, even today not everyone knows for certain: what is pragmatic? It's time to sort everything out.

Pragmatism, pragmatists and pragmatism - what is it?

According to linguists, the word “pragmatism”, together with its cognates, came to us through the mediation of the English language, but at the same time has ancient Greek origins: “pragma” in translation means “ action”, “deed” , “benefit” (Greek. ).

Initially, this term was philosophical, so dictionaries primarily reflect the meaning of pragmatism in the aspect of this science. Here it became a “new trend”, a contrast to classical philosophy, which was too abstract and divorced from the realities of life.

In a philosophical sense, pragmatism is a doctrine or approach based on the study of effective and useful action as the main form of human activity, as well as on the mechanisms of human consciousness that provide this action.

A related concept “pragmatics” is found in linguistics , and in two meanings at once: in a broad sense as a condition for the existence of language, and also as a discipline that studies these conditions.

In historical science, pragmatism is a direction where, in addition to describing what is happening, emphasis is placed on the motivations of individuals (politicians, generals, etc.) that led to these events.

In everyday, everyday meaning, pragmatism is a life strategy based on building views and actions based on practical benefits and obtaining positive results.

The dictionary of synonyms supplements the meaning of the word “pragmatism” with the following concepts:

1. utility;
2. earthiness;
3. practicality;
4. instrumentalism;
5. caution.

A supporter of the above ideas is called a pragmatist - both in the scientific-philosophical and in the everyday sense.

Accordingly, pragmatism is a character trait inherent in a pragmatist.

For a pragmatically minded person, all judgments are in the practical area. He is a man of action. But this is brief, and we will talk about such people in more detail below.

Test.

1. When you discover the start of a fire, what is the first thing you do?

2. You want to make repairs, what is more acceptable for you?

3. You bought a wall for your room, but there was an error in the assembly diagram. Your actions:

4. When traveling abroad, how do you find out the bus schedule without knowing the local language?

5. You bought an intellectual game, how long will you be interested in it?

6. Which way is more suitable for you to learn something new?

If you have any questions, you can write them in the comments. We wish you all the best!

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History of pragmatism: from philosophy to everyday life

This philosophical movement originated in America, which is not surprising: Americans are a practical nation that Hegel’s objective idealism and other components of the philosophical “classics” could not satisfy.

However, to do without basic teaching entirely, as the French say, is “not comme il faut.” This is how pragmatism emerged. Its founder is considered to be Charles Peirce, who outlined the main ideas of “ down-to-earth philosophy ” in his works.

Peirce's ideas were developed by William James and John Dewey. The latter proposed considering experience as the main philosophical concept. In general, this science was given the role of a tool for improving the social and cultural life of people. Therefore, the second name of Dewey's concept is instrumentalism.

Richard Rorty went even further from classical philosophy, proposing to completely abandon universal ideas and methods - and it’s not far from abstraction! There are specific situations, and you need to focus on them (on the context, in other words). This doctrine came to be called contextualism.

Over time, the concept of “pragmatism” migrated into everyday life. Now it is used not only by philosophers, but by pragmatists in the modern sense - these are not necessarily supporters of the teachings of Charles Peirce. They may not even be aware of its existence.

A practical view of success: 7 rules of a pragmatist.

The philosophy of pragmatism echoes the philosophy of success. Next are 7 rules that you can learn from practical people in order to achieve more in life.

Identify the problems that stand in your way.

Most people prefer not to talk or even think about problems. So they don’t get the main thing – their decision. Pragmatists perceive problems as a chance to improve something. They do not avoid problems and harsh reality, they admit their weaknesses, but do not give up. Pragmatists analyze, communicate with competent people, draw up a detailed strategy, and carry out their plans step by step.

Don't focus on other people's problems.

We are so dependent on stress that sometimes we invent it for ourselves. Not consciously, but because we don’t know how to build personal boundaries. Our inability to defend our own benefit makes us dependent on impressionable friends, emotional colleagues, an unrestrained boss, on everything. Other people’s problems become additional stress: “if a person feels bad, I have to listen to him.” But a person who is aware of his desires is much more difficult to unsettle. We have the power to say “no” to others, limit the flow of negative information and refuse imposed obligations.

Don't be afraid and don't worry.

We waste time worrying about things that will never happen. This is fear. In the 20th century, fear does not protect us from troubles, but takes away our inner strength and clutters our consciousness. To achieve what you want, you need to be focused every day. Realists don't frighten themselves with horror scenarios. They soberly assess the chances, analyze the benefits of successful business management and think ahead about the steps they will take in case of failure.

Learn to save.

The habit of saving is characteristic of all successful entrepreneurs. It is important to give up spontaneous purchases dictated by emotions - unreasonably expensive things, trips. It is important to develop the habit of putting the money you save in a separate piggy bank. It doesn't have to be half your salary. This could be 10% of your monthly income, an unexpected bonus, or a repaid debt.

Invest.

Even in a promising position, not everyone manages to “rise” to the position of financial director or president of the company. But working capacity has a clear limit. Working harder and harder and competing with younger employees becomes more and more difficult over the years. Investments are passive income that will help you gain financial independence. You don't have to invest in something exotic. This could be your own business or find a good broker with a state license.

Take care of your health.

It’s hard to lure a practical person into the gym with mythical promises of a beautiful figure. But other arguments will work: a healthy, physically strong person thinks better, works efficiently, does not spend money on treatment, takes care of himself and helps his loved ones. For example, the cost of health insurance in many countries is determined by the state of health: the better it is, the less you have to pay. So the American love for sports is a severe necessity, dictated by pragmatism.

Read, watch, learn only useful things.

If we have eaten something harmful, there is a radical way to get rid of low-quality products. But everything that our brain gets into stays there forever. Our brain is not a garbage dump, so for its high-quality development it is worth choosing the most powerful and practical books, films or publications. And the main thing is to communicate with active, purposeful, successful interlocutors.

Conclusions:

• The theory of pragmatism is based on the principle of utility: only those things that bring practical benefit are important.
• Successful businessmen profess the philosophy of pragmatism: this is the only way to achieve their goals.
• Pragmatists do not commit romantic acts, but they do not complain about life and do not allow others to mope.

Take a temperament test

What is a pragmatic person?

Pragmatic people are distinguished by qualities that give reason to consider them strong personalities, while at the same time admiring, envying, and sometimes disliking them.

1. Independent management of your life without “swimming” with the flow. A pragmatic person will not hope that life will put everything in its place. He relies on his own strength, not relying on “zigzags of luck”, karmic predisposition and the Moon in Capricorn.
2. A clear definition of life guidelines, goals and objectives, active movement forward with maximum concentration on business. A pragmatist does not dream, but plans.
3. Avoidance of random actions. Everything that such a person undertakes is, in fact, a step towards turning a goal into a result. For example, he will not get an education just for the sake of a diploma. A pragmatist does not scatter his efforts.
4. Understanding the value of time as a non-renewable resource, respectful attitude towards it. You can learn time management from a pragmatist. Deadlines are a way of life for him.
5. Logical mindset, rejection of idealism in any form. A pragmatic person strives to find a reasonable explanation for everything. Phrases from the series “what is to be, cannot be avoided”, “got off on the wrong foot”, “apparently, not destiny” are an empty phrase for him.
6. The ability to take advantage of current circumstances. Such people will not sit idly by waiting for “better times.” The famous phrase about lemon and lemonade is about them.

A pragmatist is a person who looks at the world soberly. He is rarely disappointed because he is not fascinated (this applies to both events and people).

Unlike vulnerable and sensitive romantics, such people do not build sand castles, preferring more reliable materials.

Genetically and historically, a pragmatist is usually a man , but modern trends show an increase in the number of women with this type of thinking.

Who is a pragmatist in the good sense of the word?

In everyday understanding, such a character trait as pragmatism causes a dual attitude. On the one hand, a pragmatist is a person devoid of romance, who gives useful gifts on the first date and is not capable of doing “something like that.” But, nevertheless, pragmatic realists are successful entrepreneurs with an analytical mindset.

What else characterizes pragmatists?

• They are interested in the result, not the process. If there is no material result, you should not waste time on any business.
• Bias, contemplation, slobbering, sentimentality, illusions, empty fantasies and daydreams are alien to them.
• They are not familiar with euphoria in relationships, which means there is no phase of disappointment.
• For them, the business is first and foremost important.
• They want the best of what they have.

Historically and genetically, a pragmatic type of thinking is inherent in men. They are rational, restrained, and results-oriented. But today's trends show that women achieve goals, build a career, earn money and lead with equal success.

Take a character test

Pros and cons of pragmatism

Healthy pragmatism is a personal quality that is natural to a person.

It developed historically, first in the struggle against natural factors for survival, and later in numerous vicissitudes associated with the distribution of social, power and other roles in society.

Our prehistoric ancestors, preparing to hunt large animals (elephants, bison, mammoths), tracked the herd in advance, prepared a trap, and sometimes chose a wounded animal or an animal that had strayed from the “collective” as a victim. It was a strategic plan built by primitive pragmatists, the strict adherence to which depended on who they would become today: successful hunters or prey.

Modern “mammoth hunting” does not imply such an unconditional alternative, but healthy pragmatism helps to focus on the main thing, set priorities correctly and achieve what you want.

Pragmatism encourages a person to complete what he started, improve, and be responsible for decisions made. In a number of moments it borders on professionalism.

In Russia, the attitude towards pragmatism is ambiguous, since it contradicts historically established collectivism. After all, the foundation here is individuality (individual choice, responsibility, success).

The persistent pursuit of a goal is sometimes considered bad manners even today, although there has been a shift in the opposite direction - a sharp surge of interest in the ideas of pragmatism at the level of the cult of a successful person , sweeping away everything that is “except” along the way. Somewhat in the American style, but what can you do, this is where this teaching came from.

Pragmatists are accused of coldness, callousness, and excessive prudence - and sometimes this is not without reason. They are demanding not only of themselves, but also of those around them, and are not prone to sentimentality, spontaneity and unjustified (from their point of view) risks.

Healthy pragmatism does not exclude the presence of elements of romance in life: these concepts should not become antonyms (what is that?), their task is to complement each other.

Pragmatist thinking style

Pragmatists strive to achieve a goal using all currently available opportunities.
They will not look for additional information, funds, resources, because this is an unjustified loss of effort and time. Problems are solved as they arise, so as not to be distracted by the main goal - obtaining a specific result, even a small one. The constant search for new methods, experiments and other actions do not indicate a deviation from the chosen course. This does not come from a desire for novelty, but is dictated by the desire to achieve results as quickly as possible. For this reason, they are ready to listen to other people’s opinions, in the hope of finding the shortest path to the goal.

This approach may seem superficial. It differs from generally accepted norms, and pragmatists give the impression of inconsistent people, devoid of principles. They are of the opinion that everything that happens around depends little on a person’s abilities and desires. The main thing for pragmatists is not to miss the favorable moment when everything goes well.

Their belief in the unpredictability and uncontrollability of the world justifies the strategy “today it will be like this, and then according to circumstances.”

It is impossible to influence a pragmatist with emotions and manifestations of feelings, unless they become an objective obstacle to the path or, on the contrary, help in a given situation. They have an excellent sense of the situation, quickly reacting to its changes. They easily cooperate, enthusiastically participating in discussions of important issues and developing collective solutions.

Pessimism and a negative attitude are not typical of these people. The problems that arise are not able to turn them off the chosen path. They approach the decision with a positive attitude, a pragmatist, in simple words, an incorrigible optimist who strives to turn difficult circumstances in their favor. The established worldview does not allow us to overdramatize and take the difficulties that arise too seriously.

Behavior and thinking are flexible. Communication skills are well developed, they can easily imagine themselves in the place of another person and understand the consequences of their actions. They care about other people's opinions exactly to the extent that their future depends on it.

Pragmatism and commercialism

The negative attitude towards pragmatists is also explained by the fact that pragmatism is confused with commercialism (what is this?). And in vain: these are completely different concepts.

A pragmatist is a person who knows the value not only of himself, but also of those around him. He is capable of true friendship and love, he is not characterized by “trading” in interpersonal relationships, pettiness, hypocrisy (what is this?) and venality. Movement towards the intended goal does not occur at the expense of others, but by relying on one’s own strength.

Unlike a mercantile personality, a pragmatist is not always interested in material gain. His goal may also be moral satisfaction.

Such people also have an element of pragmatism in interpersonal relationships. Pragmatists are ready to sincerely care about loved ones, helping them (including financially), if they count on a similar attitude towards themselves.

But they will think twice before supporting a person who does not value benevolence and is unable to repay good with good. There is a very thin line here that separates pragmatism from commercialism, but we repeat - it exists.

As a rule, pragmatists are not mercantile, but there is a bit of selfishness in their actions.

How to properly cultivate pragmatism in yourself?

It is not difficult to understand what pragmatism is, as well as to understand its meaning. It is more difficult to cultivate such a useful quality in yourself.

• Before you start planning, it is important to think through all the tasks and technical points to achieve the intended success, even if they are unimportant. It’s the little things that can slow down the path to the intended result.
• It is important to learn how to make plans and goals for several years ahead. This skill will help you clearly understand what you want to see as a result of the work done.
• You need to learn how to build logical chains and think through strategies in your head several steps ahead. Remember that you need to learn not only to think logically, but also to make a wish list.

Now you need to choose one of your dreams from your list and make a rough plan in order to realize it. To do this, it is important to answer the following questions:

• Do you need help from outsiders to achieve your goal?
• How much investment will be required to solve temporary problems?
• Could difficulties arise? If yes, which ones?
• What skills and knowledge do you need to have to solve work problems?

Having worked through each aspect, you will be able to get an action plan in great detail. By observing and strictly following your prescribed plan, your goal and dream will come true much earlier than you could have imagined before.

Brief summary

The main idea of ​​pragmatism is effective action, bridging the gap between theory and practice, therefore a pragmatic person is a man of reason who does not accept abstractness, is guided by the criterion of “useful-useless”, logic and common sense.

He sets realistic goals for himself, knows how to abstract from everything unnecessary and consistently achieves results. It is only important that the concept of “excess” does not include fundamental life values: spirituality, family, love, friendship, self-development.