pragmatism
UK[ˈpræɡmətɪzəm]US[ˈpræɡməˌtɪzəm]
n
a way of thinking or dealing with problems that emphasizes practical solutions and consequences over theories or principles.
n
(philosophy) a doctrine that evaluates theories or beliefs in terms of the success of their practical application.
Morpheme Breakdown
pragmat
ism
pragmat
deed, act
ism
doctrine, practice
Etymology
the term pragmatism is built upon the greek root 'pragma', meaning 'deed' or 'thing done'. this root entered english via the latin 'pragmaticus', which pertained to civil or state affairs. the suffix '-ism' was later appended to form a noun denoting a specific doctrine or practice. the philosophical doctrine of pragmatism, developed in the late 19th century, thus derives its name from its core principle: that the meaning and truth of ideas are found in their practical consequences and real-world effects, directly linking the ancient sense of 'action' to a modern theory of knowledge and meaning.
Analysis
Structure: pragmat (deed, act) + ism (doctrine, practice)
pragmat originates from greek 'pragma' (deed, act), via latin 'pragmaticus'. ism is a suffix of greek origin, via latin and french, used to form nouns denoting a system, principle, or ideological movement.
Examples
his pragmatism led him to choose the simpler, more cost-effective solution.
american foreign policy during that era was often characterized by a hard-nosed pragmatism.
the philosophy professor contrasted the idealism of plato with the pragmatism of william james.