False Pragmatism

False Pragmatism is a fools game.

Throughout my career I’ve heard many people state, “Well, I’m just being pragmatic…” like they’re holding a Royal Flush that beats all other arguments. It’s the phrase that’s often used to rationalize doing what’s easy instead of what’s right. An excuse to optimize for the short term while ignoring detrimental impacts of the long term. It’s used as a cloak to make monetary decisions that may be immoral because it’s what’s ‘best for business’. It’s usually used by people who don’t think they will be held accountable for the result.

False pragmatism needs to be questioned and challenged.

Considering an unsubstantiated pragmatic assertion infallible is actually antithetical to what it means. To be pragmatic is a painstaking but worthwhile approach to solving complex problems requiring good data, varied perspectives, and careful analysis of potential impacts. Pragmatism doesn’t stop at monetary impacts, it must assess moral, ethical and legal impacts as well.

Complex problems can’t be quickly remedied with simplistic solutions masquerading as pragmatism.

The next time someone claims they’re being pragmatic, make them ante-up and put their cards on the table by asking:

• What data and whose perspectives did you considered to come up with this proposal?

• What short, mid, long term outcomes do you expect as a result? What are the repercussions?

• What are the moral and ethical impacts of taking the approach you’re describing?

• How would you rationalize this decision to the people who might be affected?

• Would you be willing to put your decision in writing?

If their hand is as strong as they think they will go all in.

If not, they will fold.

Either way, you’ll be closer to the right answer.