Define Pragmatic theory of truth.
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The pragmatic theory of truth, associated primarily with the American philosopher Charles S. Peirce and later developed by William James and John Dewey, posits that the truth of a proposition is contingent upon its practical consequences and usefulness in guiding action. Unlike correspondence theories that emphasize a proposition's alignment with objective reality, pragmatism defines truth in terms of its practical implications.
According to pragmatism, a belief or statement is considered true if it leads to successful outcomes or resolves problems in practice. Truth, in this context, is dynamic and subject to change as new experiences and consequences emerge. The focus is on the practical effects of holding a particular belief rather than its correspondence to an external reality.
William James, a prominent pragmatist, introduced the concept of "cash value," suggesting that the truth of an idea can be evaluated by considering its practical consequences and effects on human experience. Pragmatic theories of truth emphasize the functional and instrumental aspects of beliefs, highlighting their role in facilitating effective action and problem-solving within a particular context.