Single Idea 18985

[catalogued under 14. Science / B. Scientific Theories / 3. Instrumentalism]

Full Idea

The possession of true thoughts means everywhere the possession of invaluable instruments of action.

Gist of Idea

True thoughts are just valuable instruments of action

Source

William James (Pragmatism - eight lectures [1907], Lec 6)

Book Reference

James,William: 'Pragmatism - eight lectures' [Dover 1995], p.78


A Reaction

It looks to me like we should distinguish 'active' and 'passive' instrumentalism. The passive version says there is no more to theories and truth than what instruments record. James's active version says truth is an instrument for doing things well.