William James
United States, nineteenth–twentieth centuries
He developed a version of pragmatism attentive to the consequences of adopting a belief.
Historical context
James published Pragmatism in 1907, drawing on lectures. His interests included psychology, religion, and the relation between belief and experience.
Overview
A difference between ideas becomes clearer by considering what someone accepting each would expect or do. In reflecting on religious belief, James also considers experiences and choices that affect the inquirer.
Main claims
Experiential consequences help clarify the practical meaning of ideas.
Debates and nuances
His defence of certain choices to believe requires conditions such as a live, forced, and momentous option.
This entry provides educational context.