Advanced search
Start date
Betweenand


Wittgenstein on the problem of the external world

Full text
Author(s):
Raquel Albieri Krempel
Total Authors: 1
Document type: Master's Dissertation
Press: São Paulo.
Institution: Universidade de São Paulo (USP). Faculdade de Filosofia, Letras e Ciências Humanas (FFLCH/SBD)
Defense date:
Examining board members:
Joao Vergilio Gallerani Cuter; Roberto Bolzani Filho; Marcelo Silva de Carvalho
Advisor: Joao Vergilio Gallerani Cuter
Abstract

This thesis aims to evaluate Ludwig Wittgensteins treatment of the traditional skeptical problem of the existence of the external world. It is especially in On Certainty where we find relevant thoughts on the topic, such as discussions about the meaning of skeptical doubt and about knowledge claims. Wittgenstein essentially rejects the problem. Against skepticism, Wittgenstein maintains that our basic certainties are outside the scope of doubt and are also a condition for the possibility of any language game (including that of doubt). Against Moore and the philosophical tradition in general, he intends to show not only that it is meaningless to give a response to the false problem of the external world, but also to associate our basic certainties with an epistemic vocabulary. My goal is to point out problems in Wittgensteins criticisms. I first present a strong version of skepticism about the external world, and then show that his criticisms only work against a weaker version of skepticism. As for his attacks against Moore, I argue that they only work at the high cost of inconsistency with his own metaphilosophical views. The conclusion that I want to reach is that the problem of the external world remains alive, despite Wittgensteins attempts to reject it. (AU)

FAPESP's process: 09/04131-7 - Wittgenstein on the problem of the external world
Grantee:Raquel Albieri Krempel
Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Master