* Charles Sanders Peirce: Considered the "father of pragmatism," Peirce developed the core philosophical principles of the movement. He focused on the idea that the meaning of a concept is determined by its practical consequences.
* William James: A prominent psychologist and philosopher, James popularized pragmatism with his book "Pragmatism: A New Name for Some Old Ways of Thinking." He emphasized the importance of experience and the individual's subjective understanding of the world.
* John Dewey: A leading figure in education and social reform, Dewey applied pragmatism to practical concerns, advocating for democratic ideals and progressive education. He argued that learning should be active and hands-on, focused on solving real-world problems.
* Richard Rorty: A contemporary philosopher, Rorty further developed pragmatism's critique of traditional metaphysics and epistemology. He argued that truth is a social construct, shaped by the language and culture of a particular community.
These are just a few examples of famous pragmatists. The movement has a rich history and continues to influence philosophers, scientists, and thinkers across various disciplines today.