Work

The relationship between ends and means in environmental policy: Pragmatic holism as a critique of productivism and technological determinism

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: This paper explores the relationship between ends and means through the lens of classical American pragmatism, with a particular focus on the philosophy of John Dewey. It critiques the dominant productivist discourse, which views technology as a universal tool for achieving predefined goals such as economic growth, and examines the limitations of this approach in the context of contemporary ecological challenges. The author advocates for pragmatic holism as an alternative theoretical framework, wherein ends and means are not hierarchically separated but form a dynamic continuum shaped by specific problematic situations. Emphasis is placed on the importance of reflection, deliberation, the principle of inclusivity in democracy, and an experimental approach in shaping public policies related to ecological transition.

Source: Theoria Beograd

DOI: 10.2298/theo2502125p

Author: Srdjan Prodanovic

Institutions: University of Belgrade, Institute for Philosophy and Social Theory

Language: English

Topic: Pragmatism in Philosophy and Education

Subfield: Philosophy

Field: Arts and Humanities

Domain: Social Sciences

SDG: Responsible consumption and production

Open Access status: diamond

Funder: Ministarstvo Prosvete, Nauke i Tehnološkog Razvoja