[ Wesleyan Home Page ] [ WesMaps Home Page ] [ WesMaps Archive ] [ Course Search ] [ Course Search by CID ]
Academic Year 2005/2006


The Philosophy of Wittgenstein
PHIL 320 SP

The later writings of Ludwig Wittgenstein are obscure and fascinating. His philosophy has generated conversion of an almost religious order. The converted find Wittgenstein to have overturned traditional philosophy, if not philosophy altogether. Yet no Wittgensteinian has provided an argument that is both clear and compelling for this claim. It is not surprising, then, that Wittgensteinianism is considered esoteric and exclusive. This seminar will investigate the sense in which Wittgenstein's work constitutes a criticism of traditional philosophy. By examining a range of themes in Tractatus Logico-Philosophicus, we will assess the temptation to discover in Wittgenstein's texts an esoteric doctrine.

MAJOR READINGS

Ludwig Wittgenstein, TRACTATUS LOGICO- PHILOSOPHICUS, and some contemporary writings about Wittgenstein.

EXAMINATIONS AND ASSIGNMENTS

Two seminar papers (10pp) and a philosophical journal.

COURSE FORMAT: Discussion

REGISTRATION INFORMATION

Level: UGRD    Credit: 1    Gen Ed Area Dept: HA PHIL    Grading Mode: Graded   

Prerequisites: PHIL202 AND PHIL289

SECTION 01

Instructor(s): Ostrow,Matthew    
Times: ..T.... 07:00PM-09:50PM;     Location: FISK101;
Reserved Seats:    (Total Limit: 20)
SR. major: 15   Jr. major: 0
SR. non-major: 5   Jr. non-major: 0   SO: 0   FR: 0

Special Attributes:
Links to Web Resources For This Course.

Last Updated on MAR-30-2006


Contact wesmaps@wesleyan.edu to submit comments or suggestions. Please include a url, course title, faculty name or other page reference in your email

Copyright Wesleyan University, Middletown, Connecticut, 06459