Abstract
The purpose of this paper is to delineate the role that American philosophy has played in opening the door for social constructionist thought. I assert that James' pragmatism is the main, American, theoretical precursor of the present-day social constructionist movement. More specifically, I compare and contrast William James' work on pragmatism with Kenneth Gergen's approach to social constructionism. There are four main parallels between Gergen's social constructionism and James' pragmatism. The first concerns the importance of `utility' as a method for evaluating truth. Second, James and Gergen both embrace philosophical pluralism. Third, each theorist examines the social construction of knowledge within his respective era. Finally, I examine the parallels of how `progress and knowledge' are viewed within social constructionism and pragmatism. A fuller appreciation of the parallels between pragmatism and social constructionism may lead social constructionists to re-examine the value of James' pragmatism.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
