Pragmatic is the philosophy of language and communication that focuses on what works. It’s the study of how language is used in the real world, and its pragmatic aspects—such as what tone or expression is appropriate for different situations, and what words to use to express different emotions. It can also look at what types of questions are asked and what the answers are, or how people negotiate in a given social situation.
It combines elements of other philosophical traditions, including Kant and Wittgenstein in the case of the first generation of pragmatists (Peirce, James and Josiah Royce), but is most clearly the heir to Descartes’s pragmatic philosophy. This fusion of rationalism with empiricism and naturalism, with its focus on the practicality and relevance of ideas, is a growing third alternative to the analytic and Continental philosophical traditions, particularly in North America.
As a result of its popularity, pragmatics has been adopted in many fields, from education to business to counseling. There is also a growing interest in pragmatics outside of the United States, with vibrant research networks appearing in South America, Scandinavia and more recently central Europe and China.
A key aspect of pragmatics is the belief that what matters most is how you live your life and manage yourself. In this regard, pragmatists are often more successful than thoughtful character types because they do not waste time debating all possible outcomes of their actions. They make a decision and then act immediately. For example, if they are deciding whether to study for an exam or go out with friends, a pragmatic person will not spend hours researching the subject. He will simply choose the latter because that is the outcome he desires.
Another key aspect of pragmatics is the belief that truth is a consequence of how you use your language, and not something that can be derived from other factors such as logic or science. This is the most controversial aspect of pragmatism, and the one that has led to criticism from other philosophers.
It’s important to develop your pragmatic skills because they are closely linked to your ability to problem-solve. Having these skills can help you find ways to get what you need, make decisions that are best for you and your family, and communicate effectively in a variety of settings.
Nurturing your pragmatic skills requires dedication and practice. You can begin by focusing on smaller conversations, such as when asking for directions or requesting food. Then move on to larger conversations, such as those you might have with your friends or coworkers. You can also encourage your child to practice these skills in group activities such as art, music, and cooking. These activities will help them learn to speak and listen in groups, follow instructions, and participate in discussions.
Ultimately, it’s most important to be confident in yourself and your abilities. To build your self-confidence, it’s a good idea to take a measured approach: Observe your own behavior and analyze what ineffective, time-wasting activities you engage in. For instance, if you often delay making decisions or seek out reassurance from others before acting, this is a sign that you are not a pragmatist. Try to break this habit by practicing pragmatism on less important decisions first, and then moving on to bigger ones.