Wittgenstein's Tractatus: Simple Objects and The Problem of Language

Abstract

<p>This thesis introduces a problem with language (i.e. how language is connected to the world) and explores a solution to this problem offered by Ludwig Wittgenstein in his Tractatus Logico-Philosophicus. It investigates two interpretations of simple objects in the Tractatus. It is argued that the 'combinatory' account of simple objects is superior.</p> <p>This metaphysical base is then Wittgenstein's 'picture theory' of meaning reveal some common misunderstandings of especially as it applies to Russell's notion of perfect language'.</p> <p>Finally, the thesis turns to 'logical form', the structural device used in the Tractatus to connect language and the world. It is argued that Wittgenstein's solution 'fits' the problem but that it may be superfluous in light of his own suggestion that if one understands the world aright then the original problem simply does not arise.</p>