161-214 The Philosophy of Ludwig Wittgenstein

At least one single-semester first-year philosophy subject or permission from the Head of School or the subject coordinator.

This subject engages students with the major themes in the philosophy of Ludwig Wittgenstein, the Austrian philosopher whose ideas on language, thought, and reality powerfully influenced the shape of 20th century philosophy. It introduces students to Wittgenstein's main themes, and to critical issues which they raise. Specifically, the course concentrates on the views developed in Wittgenstein's mature work, the Philosophical Investigations, against the background of an introduction to his earlier views as expounded in his Tractatus Logico-Philosophicus. Students should develop an understanding of Wittgenstein's key themes and the issues they raise, an appreciation of their importance to philosophical inquiry, and the ability to proceed to further work on these topics.

• acquire the skill to assess arguments in the more lateral way characteristic of Wittgenstein's approach;

• acquire the ability to read complex theoretical texts from a critical perspective;

• develop skills pertinent to assessing divergent readings of such texts.

A written assignment of 2000 words 50% (due mid-semester), a 2-hour closed-book written examination 47% (due at the end of semester) and tutorial participation 3%.

A subject reader will be available.

• Ludwig Wittgenstein, Philosophical Investigations. (any edition).