Tractatus Logico-Philosophicus · Chapter
5.553 explained
Wittgenstein criticizes Russell's claim that there are simple relations between different numbers of individuals, questioning how such a number could be determined and denying that any number is preeminent.
What happens
Wittgenstein criticizes Russell's claim that there are simple relations between different numbers of individuals, questioning how such a number could be determined and denying that any number is preeminent.
Themes in this chapter
Critique of Traditional Philosophy
Wittgenstein challenges Russell's assumption of a preeminent number of individuals, questioning the basis of such metaphysical claims.
Logical Atomism
The discussion of simple relations between individuals touches on the logical atomist project of analyzing reality into ultimate simples.
Characters to notice
- Bertrand Russell
Russell is mentioned as having asserted that there are simple relations between different numbers of individuals, a view Wittgenstein challenges.
- Mr. Wittgenstein
Wittgenstein presents his critique of Russell's position on the number of individuals and relations.
Key passages
“Russell said that there were simple relations between different numbers of things (individuals). But between what numbers? And how should this be decided—by experience? (There is no preeminent number.)”
Russell claimed that there are basic relations connecting different quantities of individuals. But which specific numbers are involved? And could this be determined empirically? No number holds a privileged status.
Wittgenstein dismisses the idea that there is a fundamental number of individuals, rejecting both Russell's assertion and the method of deciding it.