William James

Known for

Pragmatism, The Principles of Psychology

Thought

James popularized pragmatism as a practical test for belief: an idea is "true" if believing it works, that is, if it usefully organizes experience and leads to successful action, rather than because it mirrors some abstract, unreachable reality. He applied this same practical, open-minded approach to religious belief, arguing the psychological and moral value of faith to the believer was itself significant evidence worth taking seriously.

Biography

American philosopher and psychologist, brother of novelist Henry James, who helped establish psychology as an experimental science in the United States.

CSS Philosophy paper topics

Major works

• Pragmatism: A New Name for Some Old Ways of Thinking
• The Varieties of Religious Experience