Pragmatism
A New Name for Some Old Ways of Thinking
Pragmatism: A New Name for Some Old Ways of Thinking is the text of eight lectures William James gave in Boston and New York in 1906 and 1907, published in 1907. James presents pragmatism as a method for settling metaphysical disputes by asking what practical difference each alternative would make, and as a theory of truth in which an idea is true insofar as it works, agrees with experience, and leads us where we want to go. He applies the method to the problem of substance, free will, design, the one and the many, and religion, and he contrasts the tender-minded rationalist with the tough-minded empiricist. The lectures are conversational and witty, and they made pragmatism a public philosophy. It is available to read online in your browser on Vinteuil, with the first chapter free.
Start reading right away, without signing up. The complete text is included in Vinteuil Reading, or yours forever with a one-time purchase.
Frequently asked questions about Pragmatism
Pragmatism by William James can be read online on Vinteuil, directly in your browser. The first chapter is free for everyone; the complete book is included in Vinteuil Reading ($4.99/month or $39.99/year) or yours forever for $2.99.
Can I read Pragmatism online?
Yes. Pragmatism opens right on this page, in a reader designed for long reading: adjustable text size, light, sepia and dark themes, a clickable table of contents and your place saved when you are signed in. No download or app is needed.
Is Pragmatism free to read on Vinteuil?
The first chapter of Pragmatism is free, without an account. To read the whole book, either buy its online reading for $2.99 (£2.99 in the UK) and keep it forever, or subscribe to Vinteuil Reading for $4.99/month (£4.99/month in the UK) or $39.99/year, with 1 month free for new subscribers. The subscription opens every book in the library and can be cancelled at any time.
Is Pragmatism in the public domain?
Yes. Pragmatism by William James is a public-domain work. Vinteuil offers a carefully prepared digital edition made for comfortable reading on screen.
How long does it take to read Pragmatism?
About 3 h 26 min of reading, at an average reading pace. Your place is saved automatically when you are signed in, so you can read in several sittings and on several devices.
What kind of book is Pragmatism?
Pragmatism by William James is filed under "Philosophy" in the Vinteuil library.
