An Argument for Pragmatism as a Foundational Philosophy of Occupational Therapy

Abstract

Background. In 1986, Estelle Breines argued that occupational therapy identity problems could be resolved by acquiring tools that enable therapists to analyze their profession in a sophisticated manner. Breines identified philosophical inquiry as one of these tools. Purpose. This study examined how pragmatism can provide a philosophical framework for occupational therapy practice and knowledge. Method. An analysis of a sample of occupational therapy literature, philosophy of pragmatism literature, and Slagle lectures delivered between 1955 and 1995 was completed. Themes underlying the assumptions, principles, and values articulated in the literature and the Slagle lectures were identified and compared. Results. Findings of the analysis indicate that some of the core assumptions, principles, and values of occupational therapy as identified in occupational therapy literature and the Slagle lectures are conceptually consistent with those of the philosophy of pragmatism. Practice Implications. Pragmatism may provide a philosophical framework to organize the knowledge and practice of occupational therapy and assist with clarifying the profession's identity.