By the definition of D. Dunham, pragmatism is a way of determining optimality. Translated from the Greek language, the word "pragma" is translated as "practice, action." In the philosophy of morality, the direction of pragmatism was widespread from the beginning to the end of the 50s of the XX century. The basis of this teaching was laid by the philosopher William James, who formulated two initial principles of pragmatism:
1. Welcome is what corresponds to a collective need.
2. Each moral situation is unique, and therefore, each time it is necessary to look for a completely new solution.
Subsequently, the pragmatic philosopher Dewey and the ethics Tufts expanded these positions into a whole theory. The meaning of the word “pragmatic” defines this concept as the ability to plan and act without departing from the plan. The ability to choose the main thing and cut off the excess so as not to exchange your basic needs for the bustle of life.
Theory of Pragmatism
Pragmatism is the exclusion of two extremes in ethics: absolutism and moral dogma. Moral values are considered in this case as something universal and independent of changing life situations. If we analyze the theory of pragmatism, then we see that it is not peculiar to uphold the rights of reason and morality.
Pragmatism is a denial of the meaning of generally accepted moral principles. Pragmatists argue that problems of a moral nature must be solved by the person himself, taking into account the specific situation in which he is. Consequently, pragmatists deny the possibility of a theoretical consideration of life problems. Also, in their opinion, it is impossible to turn ethical standards into “practical science”.
The essence of pragmatism
Pragmatism is the desire to make the effort and time spent pay off with the result. A short way should not exhaust the traveler, otherwise he is not quite right. Public morality sharply criticizes pragmatism. The meaning of this word is condemned by society, which is reflected in such well-known phrases as “it is not harmful to dream” or “if you want a lot, you will get little”. But pragmatism is a very correct and useful trait for the implementation of plans and goals. Awareness of your own goals will allow you to choose and decide whether you really want to.
Many believe that pragmatism is the ability to derive personal gain and benefit from everything that happens around. But in reality - this is one of the ways to determine life goals, as well as their implementation. Moreover, it is assumed that to achieve the goals you can use all available means, even if they go beyond the generally accepted rules of morality and ethics.
Such an approach of pragmatism to the problem of goals and means, in essence, means justification by morality of any actions, since someone is already busy with their implementation. The main task of reason in morality is to solve a purely practical problem: to find the most effective way to solve a goal. In some cases, pragmatism is justified by unscrupulousness, immoralism, and the policy of achieving desired goals by any means.
