Two dominant schools have emerged in twentieth-century American philosophy: scientific naturalism and pragmatism. In this vibrant collection of hard-to-find essays, articles and contributions to books, internationally-known philosopher, author and lecturer Paul Kurtz offers his own special blend of these influential theories. With skill and clarity, Philosophical Essays in Pragmatic Naturalism captures naturalism’s dedication to scientific method and critical intelligence (which are so much a part of ordinary life), and pragmatism’s application of rational inquiry to the problems each of us face as individuals and as social beings. Philosophical Essays in Pragmatic Naturalism demonstrates Kurtz’s unwavering commitment to free inquiry, his appreciation of pluralism and diversity, and his fervent belief that the scientific method and critical intelligence that gave birth to pragmatic naturalism provide the foundations for a cosmic outlook and an authentic ethical humanism.