Pragmatism is a philosophical approach that emphasizes practical consequences and real-world outcomes when evaluating ideas, beliefs, and theories. It asserts that the truth or value of a concept should be judged by its practical effects and usefulness in solving problems or improving human experiences. Developed by thinkers like Charles Sanders Peirce, William James, and John Dewey in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, pragmatism has influenced various fields including education, law, and social sciences.