Pragmatism

Pragmatism
There may be little more alarming then politicians and economists who claim they are Pragmatists. Not only is this condemned by being a single simple value, that must be related to others. The fact is it has to be to do so make any sense at all. It is impossible to be pragmatic other than for a purpose. Whatever that purpose, or set of purposes is, denotes the real philosophy that is in view. If the aim is to produce as many goods as possible, that can be sold on the 'free market', as cheaply as possible, for the greatest profit. Nothing else. Then that person has a philosophy that disregards the environment, and social needs. Bring in such a term as 'sustainable' and at least lip service is given to nature, and indeed to the human future. Continue on that theme but still with maximum profit to the 'shareholder' and a tyranny of ownership may be the end. If everyone is treated as shareholders of commerce and industry, and the social fabric, then anarchism is possible. Introduce social responsibility, as opposed to duty to the 'state' and a more altruist end-view arises.