Pragmatism - William James

Selections from the Principles of Philosophy by René Descartes.

The Principles of Philosophy, originally published in Latin in 1644, and translated to French in 1647, sets forth the principles of nature--the Laws of Physics--as Descartes viewed them. The book provides a systematic statement of natural philosophy and metaphysics, and represents the first truly comprehensive, mechanistic account of the universe. The Selections from the Principles of Philosophy contains the whole of the first part of the book ("Of the Principles of Human Knowledge"), as well as selections from the second ("Of the Principles of Material Things"), third ("Of the Visible World"), and fourth part ("Of the Earth") of the book.

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Religion and Science from Galileo to Bergson by John Charlton Hardwick.

This history of Western philosophy, published in 1920, explores how people have explained the natural world during the last few centuries, whether by spiritual interpretation or through advances in science. From the Preface: "The chapters which follow are not intended as even a slight sketch of the history of Thought since the Renaissance. Their object is more modest, i.e. to illustrate the thesis that mankind, being 'incurably religious,' insists (however hopeless the enterprise may sometimes seem) upon interpreting the universe spiritually."

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As a Man Thinketh by James Allen.

Allen's books illustrate the use of the power of thought to increase personal capabilities. Although he never achieved great fame or wealth, his works continue to influence people around the world, including the New Thought movement. Allen's most famous book, As a Man Thinketh, was published in 1902. It is now considered a classic self-help book. Its underlying premise is that noble thoughts make a noble person, while lowly thoughts make a miserable person.

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What I Believe by Bertrand Russell.

Provides a brief indication of the beliefs of philosopher Bertrand Russell, focusing on his hopes for the future. The topics included are: nature and man, the good life, moral rules, individual and social salvation, and science and happiness.

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Thoughts Are Things by Prentice Mulford.

Thoughts are Things, authored by Prentice Mulford, is one of the earliest books espousing New Thought teaching. This book contains information on how to better man's spiritual and physical life through the power of thought.

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American Philosophy Collection Vol. 1.

This collection of articles in early 20th Century American philosophy focuses on the topics of realism, experience, and ideas, with particular attention to the pragmatic naturalism of John Dewey. In tracks 1-5, Dewey responds to critics of his famous article “The Postulate of Immediate Empiricism” (available in Short Nonfiction Collection Vol.034) . Tracks 6-12 constitute a series of pointed debates between Dewey and E. B. McGilvary on the topics of time, ideas, and reality. Tracks 13-16 include stand-alone articles on related topics, including Dewey’s influential critique of “The Reflex Arc Concept in Psychology.” Authors include: John Dewey, B. H. Bode, Frederick J. E. Woodbridge, J. A. Leighton, Evander Bradley McGilvary, John E. Boodin, and Sterling P. Lamprecht.

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American Philosophy Collection Vol. 2 by Various.

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Some Problems of Philosophy by William James.

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Essays in Radical Empiricism by William James.

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"Pragmatism" by William James remains a vital exploration of philosophical thought, particularly in its emphasis on the practical implications of truth. Delivered through a series of engaging public lectures in Boston from 1906 to 1907, James critiques rationalism and other philosophical schools while championing a view of truth that is grounded in its utility for everyday life. He posits that true beliefs are those that effectively assist individuals in navigating their experiences, a concept that challenges the notion of relativism by asserting that reality is an objective fact, even as individuals interpret it subjectively. James's insights into how we select and understand aspects of reality continue to resonate today, prompting reflection on the nature of belief and its role in our lives. This enduring work not only clarifies the principles of pragmatism but also invites listeners to consider how their beliefs shape their interactions with the world around them.

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