chapter 2 - the pragmatic maxim

"it appears, then, that the rule for attaining the third grade of clearness of apprehension is as follows: consider what effects, that might conceivably have practical bearings, [that] we conceive the object of our conception to have. then, our conception of these effects is the whole of our conception of the object." Peirce, 1906.

Comment: This is the maxim, the governing rule, of pragmatic thought, in that it explains that to understand any relatively complex object -- mental phenomenon -- at the third grade of clearness -- meaning, at its symbolic or highest level (its third stage -- beyond a mere image [first grade of clearness] or simply an indication [second grade of clearness) -- we examine the likely effects or outcomes this object of thought will have in a practical setting. it means we can, with sufficient thought, determine likely effects, therefore ultimate meaning, through sustained reflection in terms of practical (pragmatic) outcomes or effects. though somewhat idealistic, as it must be, it is also realistic in that it is a grounding mode of reflection on particulars leading to general practicalities, general realities. such reflection leading toward generalized thought is sufficient to cover every reasonably conceiveable aspect of a thought or object, but does not and cannot shut off further inquiry. in fact, in this respect inquiry never truly ends, it continues into greater and more nuanced 'grades of clearness.' this is really the ideal-practical basis for all modern scientific thought, or more basically, all logical thought. it is also important in, for example, journalism, because it helps us understand the ideal of objectivity as a pragmatic goal of 'daily' understanding.