What is the Difference Between Pragmatism and Idealism?

Pragmatism and idealism are two philosophical approaches that offer different views on knowledge, value, and the nature of reality. The main differences between them are:

1. Focus: Pragmatism values the practical outcomes of beliefs and behaviors, whereas idealism values concepts and principles. Pragmatism is concerned with finding effective answers to real-world problems, while idealism is focused on pursuing often unrealistic ideals and a higher vision for their goals.
2. Reality: According to pragmatism, reality is how everything works in practice, and information should be measured by its utility in resolving issues and attaining goals. In contrast, idealism believes that reality is primarily mental or intellectual in character and that the material world is an illusion.
3. Major Components: Pragmatism views the practical effects of an activity to be its fundamental component, while idealism's core component is mental entities or thoughts and ideas.
4. Thought: Pragmatism considers thought as a guide to prediction, problem-solving, and action, while idealism considers thoughts and perceptions to impact the universe and that principles and ideals are more important than practical considerations.

In summary, pragmatic people focus on practicality and compromise, while idealistic people are driven by their vision and moral values. Both philosophical approaches can coexist and even complement each other, as ideals cannot be realized without pragmatic ways of getting there, and pragmatic solutions need to be guided by ideals to define what counts as progress.

Comparative Table: Pragmatism vs Idealism

Here is a table highlighting the differences between pragmatism and idealism:

In summary, pragmatism emphasizes the practical implications of ideas and actions, while idealism focuses on concepts and principles, asserting that reality is mentally constructed or immaterial. Thought is considered a guide in pragmatism, while in idealism, thoughts and ideas are considered the only real entities. Pragmatism is a constantly evolving dynamic, whereas idealism views reality as inherently mental or intellectual in nature. Finally, pragmatism emphasizes practical experimentation and experience, while idealism considers experience in relation to mental constructs.