Today, we’re going to explore two important ways of looking at the world: idealism and pragmatism. These big words help us understand different ways people make decisions and solve problems.
What is Idealism?
Idealism is about dreaming big and imagining how the world should be. Idealists have strong beliefs about what is right and wrong and strive to make the world better according to these beliefs. They often ask questions like:
- “What is the best way to help everyone?”
- “How can we make the world fair and just?”
Example: Imagine you want to start a club at school to protect the environment. An idealist might dream of a school where everyone recycles and uses solar energy.
What is Pragmatism?
Pragmatism is about being practical and focusing on what works. Pragmatists look at the situation as it is and find the best way to make improvements, even if it’s just a small step forward. They often ask questions like:
- “What can we do right now to make things better?”
- “What is the most practical solution to this problem?”
Example: Using the same club idea, a pragmatist might start by organising a recycling program and getting a few bins around the school to see how it works.
Balancing Idealism and Pragmatism
Both idealism and pragmatism are important. Idealism helps us dream big and aim for a better future, while pragmatism helps us make practical changes and achieve those dreams step by step.
How to Use Both in School Projects
- Dream Big: Start by thinking about what you really want to achieve. What is your big dream?
- Plan Practically: Break down your big dream into smaller, manageable steps. What can you do today or this week?
- Stay Flexible: Be ready to adjust your plans if something doesn’t work out. It’s okay to change your approach to find the best solution.
Reflection Time
Think about a project or goal you have. Are you more of an idealist, dreaming about the perfect outcome? Or are you a pragmatist, focusing on practical steps? How can you balance both approaches to achieve your goals?
Conclusion
Understanding idealism and pragmatism helps us become better thinkers and problem-solvers. By combining big dreams with practical steps, we can make a real difference in our school and community.
See Lesson Plan on this topic here
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