Charles Peirce’s Theory of Enquiry: An Epistemological Analysis

Abstract

This epistemological analysis posits that Charles Peirce’s pragmatism is not confined to the “determination of the meaning of terms” but is also, and more fundamentally, a theory and tool of enquiry. To substantiate this view and distinguish pragmatism from some dominant antithetical viewpoints that predate it, the paper broadly explores the origin, unique features, and practical relevance of Peirce’s classical brand. The study concludes by pointing out the inherent contradictions in the views of John Dewey, Peirce’s contemporary and the first notable philosopher to query the heuristic value of Peirce’s pragmatism.