Creative Intelligence: Essays in the Pragmatic Attitude

by John Dewey

"Creative Intelligence: Essays in the Pragmatic Attitude" by John Dewey et al. is a collection of philosophical essays written in the early 20th century. The work seeks to explore the concept of creative intelligence from a pragmatic perspective, addressing its application across various fields such as philosophy, logic, psychology, and ethics. The essays aim to encourage a re-evaluation of traditional philosophical problems, emphasizing a more dynamic understanding of intelligence and experience. The opening of the book begins with a prefatory note that sets the tone for the essays to follow, explaining the intent to promote an intellectual collaboration rather than adherence to a single set of beliefs. John Dewey’s introduction discusses the stagnation of philosophical thought due to its traditional ties and calls for a necessary recovery of philosophy that responds to contemporary issues. He emphasizes the need for philosophy to engage directly with the evolving complexities of modern life, arguing that philosophers must reevaluate longstanding problems in light of new scientific and social developments to remain relevant and beneficial to human experience.