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Unit Learning Journal

The author reflects on their shift from a Positivist and Realist worldview to embracing Pragmatism, which emphasizes the practical consequences of ideas as a measure of truth. This change has led to a more active engagement with concepts, focusing on their utility in navigating life rather than solely on empirical validation. The conclusion highlights the value of flexible interpretations of reality in philosophy, prioritizing effective living over strict categorization.

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3 views1 page

Unit Learning Journal

The author reflects on their shift from a Positivist and Realist worldview to embracing Pragmatism, which emphasizes the practical consequences of ideas as a measure of truth. This change has led to a more active engagement with concepts, focusing on their utility in navigating life rather than solely on empirical validation. The conclusion highlights the value of flexible interpretations of reality in philosophy, prioritizing effective living over strict categorization.

Uploaded by

mkna8082
Copyright
© All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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Unit Learning Journal: Refracting Reality through Pragmatism

The Surprise of Pragmatism


The most surprising aspect of this week’s study was the school of Pragmatism.
Previously, I viewed "truth" through a strictly Positivist lens—believing that
something is only true if it can be empirically measured or scientifically proven.
However, learning that Pragmatists, such as William James, define truth by its
"cash-value" or its practical consequences in a person’s life was a significant
revelation (James, 1907).
Shift in Worldview
How I thought before: My old thinking was rooted in a rigid Realism. I believed
the world existed as a series of cold facts, and my opinions were only "valid" if
they aligned perfectly with those external objects. If I couldn't verify a concept
through data (Positivism), I dismissed it as irrelevant to "the real world."
How my thinking changed: The introduction of Pragmatism has softened this
stance. I now see that a viewpoint can be "true" if it provides a successful
framework for dealing with life. This shift has changed my worldview from one of
passive observation (waiting for the world to tell me what is true) to active
participation (testing ideas to see which ones help me navigate my environment
more effectively).
Conclusion
While I still value the objective nature of Realism, I now understand that
metaphysical thinking allows for a more flexible interpretation of reality.
Philosophy isn't just about labeling the world; it’s about finding the most effective
way to live within it.
References
James, W. (1907). Pragmatism: A new name for some old ways of thinking.
Longmans, Green, and Co. University of the People. (n.d.). UoPeople academic
integrity policy. [Note: Ensure you cite your specific course reading here if
applicable].

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