Understanding Rorty's Pragmatism

The discussion centers on Richard Rorty's interpretation of pragmatism as an anti-authoritarian philosophy, particularly focusing on the views of classical pragmatists like John Dewey, William James, and Charles Sanders Peirce. Rorty outlines how these thinkers share a naturalistic, Darwinian perspective and seek to protect moral and religious ideals from prevailing empiricist and positivist trends. He emphasizes the individuality of their philosophical concerns, noting that while Peirce tends towards a Kantian approach, focusing on mathematics and science, James is primarily concerned with religion and has a notably critical stance towards Kant and Hegel. Ultimately, Rorty champions Dewey as the most compelling figure when it comes to religion, praising his anti-authoritarian stance and his engagement with the complexities of human experience.