Pragmatic is a common word used to describe people, actions, or approaches that are practical and sensible. It typically emphasizes a realistic and problem-solving mindset, as well as an emphasis on getting results. This is often contrasted with idealism, which is more concerned with pursuing ideals. For example, you might hear someone say that a certain politician is pragmatic and gets things done, as opposed to idealistic and stuck in his or her principles.
While semantics describes the literal meaning of a word or sentence, pragmatics goes beyond this and focuses on how language is used in context. This includes social, cultural, and situational factors that influence the way we communicate with one another. Pragmatics is what allows us to politely hedge a request, cleverly read between the lines, or negotiate turn-taking norms in conversation. It is also what allows us to navigate ambiguity in context, which is an essential part of communication.
The concept of pragmatism was first proposed by philosopher Charles S. Peirce in the late 19th century. He argued that truth is only truly understood in terms of its effects and practical references, rather than its metaphysical or objective properties. The philosophy has since been embraced by many philosophers, educators, and researchers, including John Dewey and George Herbert Mead.
Applied pragmatics is the practical application of philosophical ideas, such as pragmatism and utilitarianism. It involves weighing the pros and cons of an action or belief, as well as its impact on others. This approach is particularly useful in situations where the outcome of a decision may be uncertain. For example, a businessperson might decide to invest in a new technology with the hope that it will increase profits, while a parent might choose to enroll their child in extracurricular activities with the goal of helping them develop their academic skills.
For example, a craftsman might consider the consequences of losing a hammer while working on a tall ladder. If the hammer falls off, it might be difficult or impossible to retrieve without climbing down. The craftsman might therefore decide that it is more practical to continue with his or her work and risk losing the hammer than it would be to stop working and climb down.
Another example of a pragmatic philosophy is the field of behavioral economics, which applies the principles of pragmatism to economic policy. This school of thought encourages governments to pursue practical solutions that will improve the lives of their citizens. It also argues that it is more important to help the poor than it is to eliminate poverty. A pragmatic political ideology can help solve problems and create a better future for everyone, including the wealthy. For this reason, it is a popular theory among politicians and economists today. However, some critics argue that pragmatism can lead to corruption and short-term gains at the expense of long-term prosperity.