

James Klagge on Wittgenstein
20 snips Feb 19, 2024
James Klagge, an expert on Wittgenstein, discusses his affluent upbringing, transition to philosophy, and influences like Russell in the Tractatus. They delve into how Wittgenstein's war experiences shaped his philosophical themes and contrast with the Vienna Circle's views on ethics and religion.
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Wittgenstein's Wealthy Background
Wittgenstein grew up in a wealthy family in Vienna, with a father who was a manufacturing businessman. His family had cultural connections and he studied engineering before turning to philosophy.
Wittgenstein's Seriousness
Franz Peric described Wittgenstein's speaking manner as conveying extraordinary definiteness, while Ludwig Henssel noted his serious yet childlike nature. He was perceived as serious and sometimes difficult to connect with.
Language and Reality Connection
Wittgenstein aimed to show how language can represent reality, likening sentences to models that correspond to parts of the world. This approach led him to develop a picture theory of meaning.