Multiple Choice Questions on Pragmatism

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#1

1. Which of the following best characterizes the pragmatic theory of truth?

(a) Truth is what corresponds to reality.
(b) Truth is what coheres with other beliefs.
(c) Truth is what is useful and works in practice.
(d) Truth is what is revealed through divine inspiration.

2. A key figure in the development of pragmatism is:

(a) Plato
(b) Immanuel Kant
(c) William James
(d) René Descartes

3. Pragmatism emphasizes the importance of:

(a) Abstract metaphysical speculation
(b) Deductive reasoning from first principles
(c) Empirical observation and experimentation
(d) Introspection and subjective experience

4. According to pragmatism, the meaning of a concept is determined by:

(a) Its inherent essence
(b) Its relation to other concepts
(c) Its practical consequences
(d) Its etymological origin

5. Which of the following is NOT a core tenet of pragmatism?

(a) Fallibilism (the idea that our beliefs are always subject to revision)
(b) Anti-skepticism (the rejection of the idea that knowledge is impossible)
(c) Foundationalism (the belief that knowledge rests on certain indubitable truths)
(d) Instrumentalism (the view that ideas are tools for solving problems)

6. Pragmatists generally believe that philosophical problems are often:

(a) Meaningless because they lack empirical grounding.
(b) Best solved through introspection and reflection.
(c) Rooted in linguistic confusions and practical difficulties.
(d) Insoluble due to the limitations of human understanding.

7. The pragmatic maxim, as formulated by Charles Sanders Peirce, states that:

(a) The meaning of a concept is the sum of its logical implications.
(b) The meaning of a concept lies in its conceivable practical effects.
(c) Truth is what the majority of people believe.
(d) Knowledge is justified true belief.

8. John Dewey's version of pragmatism is often referred to as:

(a) Radical Empiricism
(b) Instrumentalism
(c) Pragmaticism
(d) Logical Positivism

9. How does pragmatism view the relationship between theory and practice?

(a) Theory is primary; practice is secondary.
(b) Theory and practice are completely separate.
(c) Theory and practice are intertwined and mutually informing.
(d) Practice is primary; theory is secondary.

10. Which of the following would a pragmatist likely consider most important when evaluating a scientific theory?

(a) Its internal consistency and logical coherence.
(b) Its predictive power and ability to solve practical problems.
(c) Its conformity to established scientific paradigms.
(d) Its aesthetic elegance and simplicity.

Answer Key:

1. c
2. c
3. c
4. c
5. c
6. c
7. b
8. b
9. c
10. b
--------- Post edited by - Mr.Love