Wittgenstein on Rules and Nature

Description

The celebrated 20th century philosopher, Ludwig Wittgenstein, developed an interest in his later career in natural forms of behavior, what he calls 'primitive' and 'natural reactions', and the role they play in our linguistic and other intellectual practices. To many, Wittgenstein appears to be advancing a theory about these practices as originating in natural forms of behavior. However, theories of this sort seem out of place in philosophy, especially in light of Wittgenstein's own expressed views on the purpose of philosophy. Keith Dromm offers a way of understanding these apparently incongruous aspects of Wittgenstein's writings that is more consistent with his views on the proper purpose of philosophy. The book shows that Wittgenstein does not in fact offer theories about natural human behavior. Rather, these references belong to a type of philosophical reasoning that is not meant to contribute to our knowledge, as explanations in science do, but instead to help clarify our thinking on certain philosophical topics. In particular, they serve to relieve apparent tensions between the things we do know. This book offers a more useful interpretation of a recurring motif in Wittgenstein's later writings that has puzzled many of his readers.

Keith Dromm is Associate Professor of Philosophy at Louisiana Scholars' College, Northwestern State University.

"Wittgenstein's writings contain remarks of two quite different types. He reminds us that there are natural expressions and instinctual reactions. But he also claims that philosophy does not aim at explanation - it only describes. Dromm's work is unique, I believe, in showing us how to reconcile these apparently conflicting themes." - Michael Malone, Northern Arizona University, USA. Mention -Book News, February 2009 "[Wittgenstein on Rules and Nature] is rich in spite of its brevity, and, for the most part, lucidly argued ... whether or not one agrees with the overall argument, this book is a stimulating read." - Notre Dame Philosophical Reviews 'Admirably advanced and thoroughly argued ... an important achievement' - Philosophical Investigations