Pragmatic Method

The meaning of any concept or proposition is determined by tracing its practical consequences and effects on conduct and experience.

The dedication explicitly credits Mill for teaching the 'pragmatic openness of mind,' a core aspect of the pragmatic method.

The chapter introduces the pragmatic method as a way to clarify ideas by tracing their practical consequences.

James introduces the pragmatic method as a way to resolve philosophical disputes by tracing their practical consequences, though the method is not fully elaborated until later lectures.

James introduces Peirce's principle: the meaning of an idea is found in its practical effects, and disputes without practical difference are meaningless.