Wittgenstein Reader

This popular selection of Wittgenstein's key writings has now been updated to include new material relevant to recent debates about the philosopher. The excerpts are arranged by topic and introduce readers to all the central concerns of Wittgenstein's philosophy, following the evolution of his philosophical thought from the Tractatus Logico-Philosophicus through to the Philosophical Investigations. A new chapter on 'Sense, Nonsense and Philosophy' has been added, incorporating material relevant to recent debates about Wittgenstein.

The updated volume provides a comprehensive overview of Wittgenstein's influential and thought-provoking philosophical work. Readers will gain a deeper understanding of the key concepts and ideas that shaped his unique perspective on language, logic, and the nature of reality.

The selection of writings spans Wittgenstein's entire philosophical career, allowing readers to trace the development of his ideas over time. From the early Tractatus Logico-Philosophicus, with its groundbreaking exploration of the logical structure of language and the world, to the later Philosophical Investigations, which challenged many of the assumptions underlying the Tractatus, this collection offers a rich and diverse sampling of Wittgenstein's seminal contributions.

Arranged thematically, the excerpts cover a wide range of topics, including the limits of language, the nature of meaning, the role of rules and rule-following, the problem of private language, and the philosophical treatment of mathematics and logic. Readers will be introduced to Wittgenstein's influential concepts, such as the "picture theory of language," the "language-game," and the "family resemblance" approach to understanding concepts.

The new chapter on "Sense, Nonsense and Philosophy" delves into the recent debates surrounding Wittgenstein's views on the nature of philosophy and the distinction between sense and nonsense. This section examines Wittgenstein's critique of traditional philosophical approaches and his alternative vision of philosophy as a therapeutic activity aimed at resolving philosophical problems through the clarification of language.

Throughout the collection, readers will be struck by the depth and complexity of Wittgenstein's thought, as well as his unique writing style, which combines philosophical rigor with a deep engagement with the practical and everyday aspects of human language and experience.

This updated edition of Wittgenstein's key writings is an essential resource for students, scholars, and anyone interested in exploring the profound and influential ideas of this seminal philosopher. Whether you are new to Wittgenstein's work or seeking a deeper understanding of his philosophical legacy, this volume offers a rich and insightful journey through the evolution of one of the most significant thinkers of the 20th century.

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