Pragmatic Theory & Pyrrhonian Skepticism in Fantastic Mr. Fox
The Pragmatic theory suggests that a belief or an idea is “true” not because it corresponds to some external reality, but because it is true in practice. By judging the truth of ideas based on its usefulness and practical consequences rather than some abstract accuracy, philosophers and even you and I are able to better solve problems, such as those reflected in the movie Fantastic Mr. Fox.
The broad concept of the Pragmatic Theory can be pulled from the film’s resolution, when the animals find refuge in the sewers post destruction of their houses. Though this underground life is far from perfect, the animals later discover that the sewers lead to an unexpected access to a supermarket offering an abundant food supply. Their new life meets their practical needs of food, shelter and community, making this new arrangement “truly fitting their needs as the perfect home” because of its functions and opportunities.
Even if this home is not truly the most ideal home, it is effective because of its practical value, helping the animals find meaning and happiness in what works/is practical instead of comparing it to the absolute truth or what they had originally wanted as a home. The joy they experience in the supermarket, eating and dancing without end, is not in spite of the compromises to truth they make, but because they were able to embrace truth based on practicality and well-being, highlighting a pragmatic approach to truth and livelihood.
Kristofferson, Mr. Fox’s perfect, athletic and polite nephew is the picturesque image of what a “good person” could look like. However, one of the most respectable attributes associated with Kristofferson is his treatment towards the insecure Ash. As one of the only individuals who reserves judgment regarding Ash’s appearance, personality and character, having only just met him, Kristofferson’s responses align with Pyrrhonian Skepticism, a force of Skepticism that advocates for suspending judgment when knowledge is uncertain.
Unlike Ash, who very quickly react emotionally, defensively and judgemental when encountering Mr. Fox’s favouritism towards Kristofferson, Kristofferson chooses not to judge Mr. Fox or Ash prematurely, even when Mr. Fox instrumentalized his abilities for a heist, when Ash talks down to him, or when he is being put in danger. A specific example of Kristofferson demonstrating Pyrrhonian Skepticism is shown in his reaction when Mr. Fox ropes him into one of his risky heists. Despite feeling uncomfortable and expressing concern eventually regarding the situation (“I don’t think I should be doing this”), Krstofferson never lashes out or accuses Mr. Fox of anything, nor does he attempt to impose moral superiority. Instead of judging Mr. Fox and his family, he acts with caution and gives Mr. Fox the benefit of the doubt, suspending any moral judgment and trusting that he lacks full understanding of Mr. Fox’s contextual reasons and motives.
By withholding conclusions when faced with incomplete evidence, Kristofferson relies on waiting, observing and remaining open-minded in uncomfortable, unfamiliar, and difficult situations. This philosophical approach allows him to keep his composure so that he can act rationally and compassionately, such as standing up to a classmate who’s bad mouthing Ash and even going along with Ash’s plan to steal his fathers tale back. Kristofferson’s reflection of Pyrrhonian Skepticism contributes greatly to Kristofferson's good moral character, suggesting the overall message that sometimes knowing that you don’t know everything is the wisest stance of all.
