Pragmatism

⚖The case for it

America's most original contribution to philosophy. James cuts through centuries of metaphysical deadlock with one question: 'What practical difference would it make?' Truth isn't a mirror of reality; it's what works, what helps us cope with experience. Written as popular lectures at Columbia in 1907, it's the rare philosophy book that's actually a pleasure to read. Influenced Dewey, Rorty, and every design thinker since.

— the canon

✕The case against

Truth as what works invited every objection it still receives: works for whom, for how long, at what cost to honesty? James never quite answers; he charms instead. The tender-minded versus tough-minded opener is a cartoon of his opponents, and the lecture format means breezy assertion where arguments should be. Wonderful company, loose philosophy.

— the honest librarian