The Case for Pragmatic Psychology

Instead of bickering over whose psychological paradigms will provide the best general theory of human behavior, argues Daniel B. Fishman, psychologists "need to focus our energy and attention on substantive issues, such as addressing the major psychosocial problems of our times." The Case for Pragmatic Psychology is a call to arms urging those psychologists who have already adopted a pragmatic approach to their profession to organize and share data with one another so they can fulfill their goals more efficiently. Fishman grounds his argument in a historical consideration of the trend toward psychological theorization and the movements in postmodern philosophy--particularly the recovered interest in pragmatism--that challenge that tendency, as well as an elaboration of the pragmatic case study method. While primarily of professional interest, Fishman's book is worth considering by anyone concerned with developing concrete agendas for social change.