The metaphysics of the Tractatus

The metaphysics of the Tractatus

Peter Carruthers

Published by Cambridge University Press, 1990.

COVER BLURB

In this remarkably clear and original study of the Tractatus Peter Carruthers has two principlal aims. He seeks to make sense of Wittgenstein's metaphysical doctrines, showing how powerful arguments may be deployed in their support. He also aims to locate the crux of the conflict between Wittgenstein's early and late philosophies. This is shown to arise from his earlier commitment to the objectivity of logic and logical relations, which is the true target of attack of his later discussion of rule-following.

Within this general framework Dr Carruthers explores a number of themes, including the early Wittgenstein's doctrine of the priority of logic over metaphysics, the nature and purpose of his programme of analysis of ordinary language, and the various possible arguments supporting the existence of Simples. He offers many new interpretations, and defends them with considerable attention to textual detail, yet the book's clarity and directness will make it accessible to anyone acquainted with the Tractatus. It will be required reading for all serious students of Wittgenstein's philosophy.

CONTENTS

List of abbreviations page viii

Preface ix

1 Semantic background 1

2 The Context Principle 14

3 The primacy of logic 24

4 Logical objectivism 34

5 Determinate Sinn 44

6 Vagueness 54

7 The programme of analysis 64

8 Sense-data and solipsism 75

9 Simples: weak arguments 85