Q1. Who is considered the father of Pragmatism in philosophy?
a) John Dewey
b) William James
c) Charles S. Peirce
d) Francis Bacon
Answer: c) Charles S. Peirce
Explanation: Peirce first used the term “Pragmatism”; later developed by William James and John Dewey in education.
Q2. Pragmatism emphasizes:
a) Eternal truths
b) Practical consequences
c) Ideal forms
d) Predetermined goals
Answer: b) Practical consequences
Explanation: Pragmatism defines truth in terms of its practical utility and consequences.
Q3. According to Pragmatism, truth is:
a) Absolute and eternal
b) God-given
c) What works in practice
d) Based on authority
Answer: c) What works in practice
Explanation: Pragmatists believe truth is dynamic and validated through experiences.
Q4. Which branch of philosophy is closest to Pragmatism?
a) Realism
b) Naturalism
c) Instrumentalism
d) Idealism
Answer: c) Instrumentalism
Explanation: Dewey’s philosophy of education is also called Instrumentalism.
Q5. The central aim of education in Pragmatism is:
a) Attainment of divine truth
b) Self-realization
c) Social efficiency and growth
d) Memorization of facts
Answer: c) Social efficiency and growth
Explanation: Pragmatism sees education as preparation for life through active participation.
Q6. Education, according to John Dewey, is:
a) Preparation for future life
b) Training for a job
c) Continuous reconstruction of experience
d) A pursuit of metaphysical knowledge
Answer: c) Continuous reconstruction of experience
Explanation: Dewey believed education is a lifelong process of growth through experience.
Q7. Pragmatism gives more importance to:
a) Teacher’s authority
b) Child’s activity
c) Fixed curriculum
d) Religious dogma
Answer: b) Child’s activity
Explanation: Pragmatism emphasizes activity-based, child-centered education.
Q8. The curriculum under Pragmatism should be:
a) Fixed and rigid
b) Activity-centered and flexible
c) Religious and moral-based
d) Classical and linguistic
Answer: b) Activity-centered and flexible
Explanation: Curriculum is based on needs, experiences, and interests of the child.
Q9. Pragmatists prefer a curriculum that is:
a) Subject-centered
b) Life-centered
c) Teacher-centered
d) Textbook-centered
Answer: b) Life-centered
Explanation: Curriculum should be connected with real-life experiences of learners.
Q10. Which of the following subjects is most emphasized in Pragmatism?
a) Theology
b) Abstract philosophy
c) Science and Social Studies
d) Ancient languages
Answer: c) Science and Social Studies
Explanation: These provide real-life and experimental learning opportunities.
Q11. The teaching method most suitable for Pragmatism is:
a) Lecture method
b) Project method
c) Memorization
d) Dictation
Answer: b) Project method
Explanation: Developed by Kilpatrick under Dewey’s influence; emphasizes learning by doing.
Q12. Pragmatism emphasizes learning through:
a) Dogma
b) Activity and experience
c) Authority of teacher
d) Rote memorization
Answer: b) Activity and experience
Explanation: Real knowledge is acquired by active participation.
Q13. Which approach in teaching is directly associated with Pragmatism?
a) Socratic questioning
b) Montessori method
c) Problem-solving approach
d) Scholastic disputation
Answer: c) Problem-solving approach
Explanation: Pragmatism values inquiry and solving real-life problems.
Q14. Pragmatists view discipline as:
a) Strict control by teacher
b) Punishment-based
c) Self-discipline developed through activities
d) Blind obedience
Answer: c) Self-discipline developed through activities
Explanation: Discipline comes naturally through cooperative activities and responsibility.
Q15. Pragmatism advocates discipline through:
a) Fear of authority
b) Cooperation and social participation
c) Memorization of rules
d) External control
Answer: b) Cooperation and social participation
Explanation: Group activities develop self-control and social responsibility.
Q16. In Pragmatism, the teacher is seen as:
a) Authority figure
b) Guide and facilitator
c) Source of divine knowledge
d) Examiner only
Answer: b) Guide and facilitator
Explanation: Teacher facilitates activities, guiding students in problem-solving.
Q17. Teacher’s role in a Pragmatic classroom is primarily to:
a) Dictate knowledge
b) Impose discipline
c) Create situations for learning
d) Evaluate rote learning
Answer: c) Create situations for learning
Explanation: Teacher organizes experiences where learning occurs naturally.
Q18. Pragmatism emphasizes education for:
a) Individual salvation
b) Social progress and democracy
c) Religious duties
d) Hierarchical order
Answer: b) Social progress and democracy
Explanation: Dewey stressed education as the foundation of democratic life.
Q19. Which of the following values is most emphasized in Pragmatist education?
a) Obedience
b) Flexibility and adaptability
c) Blind faith
d) Conformity
Answer: b) Flexibility and adaptability
Explanation: Pragmatism values adaptability in ever-changing situations.
Q20. Who introduced the ‘Project Method’ in Pragmatist education?
a) John Dewey
b) William James
c) W.H. Kilpatrick
d) Rousseau
Answer: c) W.H. Kilpatrick
Explanation: Kilpatrick developed the Project Method under Dewey’s philosophy.
Q21. Which philosopher said, “Education is life, not preparation for life”?
a) Rousseau
b) John Dewey
c) William James
d) Bertrand Russell
Answer: b) John Dewey
Explanation: Dewey emphasized education as a continuous process of living.
Q22. William James contributed to Pragmatism through his theory of:
a) Radical Empiricism and Will to Believe
b) Ideas of pure reason
c) Forms of reality
d) Social reconstruction
Answer: a) Radical Empiricism and Will to Believe
Explanation: James made Pragmatism popular in America.
Q23. The pragmatic method of teaching is most closely related to which psychological theory of learning?
a) Classical conditioning
b) Operant conditioning
c) Trial and error / Problem-solving
d) Gestalt theory
Answer: c) Trial and error / Problem-solving
Explanation: Pragmatism stresses solving problems through trial, error, and reflection.
Q24. Which learning activity best reflects the Pragmatist approach?
a) Learning multiplication tables by heart
b) Students conducting a community survey
c) Listening silently to a teacher’s lecture
d) Writing dictation repeatedly
Answer: b) Students conducting a community survey
Explanation: It connects school with life through active participation.
Q25. Pragmatism rejects:
a) Experiential learning
b) Scientific method
c) Fixed absolute truths
d) Child-centered education
Answer: c) Fixed absolute truths
Explanation: Pragmatism sees truth as changing with time and context.
Q26. A criticism of Pragmatism in education is:
a) It is too rigid
b) It neglects the cultural heritage
c) It overemphasizes theory
d) It ignores social life
Answer: b) It neglects the cultural heritage
Explanation: Critics argue it focuses too much on the present and future, neglecting tradition.
Q27. Another weakness of Pragmatist education is:
a) Too much emphasis on discipline
b) Overemphasis on individual experience
c) Too much stress on religious instruction
d) Lack of democratic values
Answer: b) Overemphasis on individual experience
Explanation: Some say Pragmatism may undermine universal values.
Q28. Pragmatism sees knowledge as:
a) Static
b) Dynamic and evolving
c) Revealed by divine sources
d) Absolute
Answer: b) Dynamic and evolving
Explanation: Knowledge grows with experiences and is always open to revision.
Q29. Which maxim of teaching aligns with Pragmatism?
a) From abstract to concrete
b) From theory to practice
c) Learning by doing
d) From whole to part
Answer: c) Learning by doing
Explanation: This is the central principle of Pragmatist education.
Q30. Pragmatism in education can be best summarized as:
a) Education for memory
b) Education for conformity
c) Education for life and experience
d) Education for metaphysics
Answer: c) Education for life and experience
Explanation: It stresses preparation for practical life through experience.
Q31. In Pragmatic education, evaluation should be based on:
a) Written examinations only
b) Teacher’s personal opinion
c) Child’s growth and problem-solving ability
d) Memory-based recitation
Answer: c) Child’s growth and problem-solving ability
Explanation: Continuous and activity-based assessment is preferred.
Q32. Which democratic ideal is most strongly supported by Pragmatism?
a) Authority of the state
b) Freedom and cooperation
c) Centralized control
d) Caste and class hierarchy
Answer: b) Freedom and cooperation
Explanation: Dewey emphasized democracy in education.
Q33. For a Pragmatist, knowledge is tested by:
a) Its eternal truth
b) Its practical consequences
c) Its conformity to scripture
d) Its historical value
Answer: b) Its practical consequences
Explanation: Truth is validated in terms of utility.
Q34. In a Pragmatist classroom, the main focus is on:
a) Teacher’s lecture
b) Passive listening
c) Student’s active participation
d) Memorization of facts
Answer: c) Student’s active participation
Explanation: Students learn best by doing.
Q35. Pragmatism as a philosophy of education originated in:
a) France
b) Germany
c) United States of America
d) England
Answer: c) United States of America
Explanation: Pragmatism is an American contribution to philosophy and education.
Q36. Who is regarded as the father of Pragmatism?
a) Immanuel Kant
b) John Dewey
c) Jean-Jacques Rousseau
d) Plato
Answer: b) John Dewey
Explanation: John Dewey developed Pragmatism as a philosophy of education, focusing on experience and experimentation.
Q37. Pragmatism belongs to which category of philosophy?
a) Metaphysical Idealism
b) Realism
c) Humanistic and Experimental Philosophy
d) Rationalism
Answer: c) Humanistic and Experimental Philosophy
Explanation: Pragmatism emphasizes human experience, practicality, and experimentation.
Q38. The central principle of Pragmatism is:
a) Knowledge is eternal
b) Truth is absolute
c) Truth is what works in practice
d) Reality is ideal
Answer: c) Truth is what works in practice
Explanation: Pragmatism defines truth as that which proves useful and workable in real life situations.
Q39. Pragmatism is also known as:
a) Experimentalism
b) Naturalism
c) Existentialism
d) Structuralism
Answer: a) Experimentalism
Explanation: Pragmatism stresses experimentation, learning by doing, and trial-and-error methods.
Q40. Which philosopher said, “Truth is what works”?
a) William James
b) Dewey
c) Charles Peirce
d) Bacon
Answer: a) William James
Explanation: William James emphasized the practical nature of truth in Pragmatism.
Q41. According to Pragmatism, the aim of education is:
a) Realization of absolute truth
b) Preparation for future life
c) Growth and adaptation to environment
d) Attainment of salvation
Answer: c) Growth and adaptation to environment
Explanation: Pragmatists focus on continuous adjustment and growth through experience.
Q42. Pragmatists reject fixed aims of education because:
a) They believe life is changing
b) Education must prepare only for jobs
c) Education is only for moral training
d) Knowledge is unimportant
Answer: a) They believe life is changing
Explanation: Aims should be flexible and adjustable to changing conditions.
Q43. The pragmatic aim of education is most closely associated with:
a) Social efficiency
b) Self-realization
c) Eternal values
d) Discipline and obedience
Answer: a) Social efficiency
Explanation: Pragmatism stresses preparing children to function effectively in a democratic society.
Q44. Pragmatism recommends curriculum based on:
a) Ancient scriptures
b) Child’s needs and activities
c) Teacher’s authority
d) Religious values
Answer: b) Child’s needs and activities
Explanation: The curriculum must grow out of the child’s experience and interests.
Q45. Pragmatists favor:
a) Subject-centered curriculum
b) Activity-centered curriculum
c) Teacher-dictated curriculum
d) Fixed curriculum
Answer: b) Activity-centered curriculum
Explanation: Activity and experience are central to Pragmatist education.
Q46. In Pragmatist curriculum, emphasis is placed on:
a) Theoretical knowledge
b) Practical activities and problem-solving
c) Rote memorization
d) Discipline and punishment
Answer: b) Practical activities and problem-solving
Explanation: Pragmatism promotes learning through practical engagement.
Q47. Pragmatism advocates which method of teaching?
a) Lecture method
b) Learning by doing
c) Dictation
d) Catechism
Answer: b) Learning by doing
Explanation: Experience-based learning is the foundation of Pragmatist pedagogy.
Q48. Which method is most consistent with Pragmatist teaching?
a) Project method
b) Memory drill
c) Socratic questioning
d) Recitation method
Answer: a) Project method
Explanation: Developed by Kilpatrick, the project method aligns with Dewey’s Pragmatism.
Q49. Pragmatism encourages:
a) Passive listening
b) Imitation of the teacher
c) Problem-solving and experimentation
d) Obedience to authority
Answer: c) Problem-solving and experimentation
Explanation: Children must explore and experiment to learn effectively.
Q50. The pragmatic method is based on:
a) Trial and error
b) Fixed logical reasoning
c) Authority of scriptures
d) Eternal truths
Answer: a) Trial and error
Explanation: Truth emerges from practical testing through trial and error.
Q51. Pragmatism advocates discipline through:
a) Punishment
b) Self-experience and social participation
c) Authority of elders
d) Strict obedience
Answer: b) Self-experience and social participation
Explanation: Discipline arises naturally from participation in activities and social responsibility.
Q52. For Pragmatists, discipline is:
a) External control
b) Suppression of freedom
c) Self-control developed through activities
d) Based on fear of punishment
Answer: c) Self-control developed through activities
Explanation: True discipline emerges when learners accept responsibility for their actions.
Q53. According to Pragmatism, the teacher should act as:
a) A dictator
b) A guide and facilitator
c) A preacher
d) A strict disciplinarian
Answer: b) A guide and facilitator
Explanation: Teachers should guide students in their exploration and problem-solving.
Q54. Pragmatism emphasizes the teacher as:
a) Source of all knowledge
b) Companion in learning process
c) Religious authority
d) Strict examiner
Answer: b) Companion in learning process
Explanation: Teacher and learner work together in democratic cooperation.
Q55. For Pragmatism, knowledge is:
a) Absolute
b) Derived from scriptures
c) Dynamic and functional
d) Fixed and eternal
Answer: c) Dynamic and functional
Explanation: Knowledge changes with experience and is judged by its usefulness.
Q56. Pragmatism regards truth as:
a) Eternal reality
b) Divine revelation
c) What works in a given situation
d) Universal principle independent of human beings
Answer: c) What works in a given situation
Explanation: Truth is validated through practical consequences.
Q57. Pragmatism strongly supports education for:
a) Aristocracy
b) Religious authority
c) Democracy
d) Military service
Answer: c) Democracy
Explanation: Dewey linked Pragmatism to democratic living and social efficiency.
Q58. Which of the following is central to Pragmatist education?
a) Child’s free activity
b) Memorization
c) Religious sermons
d) Blind obedience
Answer: a) Child’s free activity
Explanation: Freedom of activity is vital in a democratic classroom.
Q59. Pragmatism differs from Idealism because it:
a) Believes in absolute truth
b) Emphasizes practical utility
c) Stresses metaphysical concepts
d) Ignores social utility
Answer: b) Emphasizes practical utility
Explanation: Unlike Idealism, Pragmatism focuses on practical, usable knowledge.
Q60. Pragmatism differs from Naturalism because:
a) It accepts trial-and-error learning
b) It focuses only on instinct
c) It emphasizes discipline through punishment
d) It believes in eternal laws of nature
Answer: a) It accepts trial-and-error learning
Explanation: Naturalism stresses instinct and nature, while Pragmatism values experimentation.
Q61. According to Dewey, schools should be:
a) Preparation for future life only
b) Miniature societies
c) Centers of religious teaching
d) Lecture halls
Answer: b) Miniature societies
Explanation: Schools must reflect democratic society and prepare children to live in it.
Q62. The motto of Pragmatism in education is:
a) “Learning by hearing”
b) “Learning by doing”
c) “Learning by memorization”
d) “Learning by dictation”
Answer: b) “Learning by doing”
Explanation: Practical experience is the key to Pragmatist education.
Q63. Who propagated the “Project Method” in Pragmatism?
a) Kilpatrick
b) Dewey
c) James
d) Spencer
Answer: a) Kilpatrick
Explanation: William H. Kilpatrick developed the project method based on Dewey’s philosophy.
Q64. Pragmatist education makes the child:
a) Passive recipient
b) Active participant
c) Memorizer of facts
d) Obedient follower
Answer: b) Active participant
Explanation: Pragmatism stresses activity, creativity, and participation.
Q65. Which type of knowledge is rejected by Pragmatists?
a) Practical knowledge
b) Absolute and fixed knowledge
c) Experimental knowledge
d) Functional knowledge
Answer: b) Absolute and fixed knowledge
Explanation: Knowledge must be open to change and testing in new situations.
Q66. Dewey’s laboratory school was founded in:
a) 1894 at University of Chicago
b) 1901 at Harvard University
c) 1920 at Columbia University
d) 1930 at London School of Economics
Answer: a) 1894 at University of Chicago
Explanation: Dewey’s lab school was a practical application of his Pragmatic principles.
Q67. Pragmatism views education as:
a) Preparation for next life
b) Reconstruction of experience
c) Attainment of divine truth
d) Obedience to social order
Answer: b) Reconstruction of experience
Explanation: Education reorganizes experience to prepare learners for future challenges.
Q68. In Pragmatism, values are considered:
a) Absolute
b) Relative and socially constructed
c) Fixed by religion
d) Irrelevant
Answer: b) Relative and socially constructed
Explanation: Values emerge from social needs and practical consequences.
Q69. According to Pragmatists, moral education should be given through:
a) Religious preaching
b) Punishment and rewards
c) Social participation and real-life situations
d) Memorization of moral codes
Answer: c) Social participation and real-life situations
Explanation: Morality arises from social responsibility and practice, not preaching.
Q70. Which statement best reflects Pragmatist philosophy?
a) “Education is life itself.”
b) “Education is preparation for the afterlife.”
c) “Education is the realization of absolute truth.”
d) “Education is memorization of facts.”
Answer: a) “Education is life itself.”
Explanation: Dewey famously declared that education is not preparation for life but life itself.