Tractatus Logico-Philosophicus · Chapter
5.62 explained
Wittgenstein argues that solipsism, while containing a correct insight, cannot be expressed in language but rather shows itself.
What happens
Wittgenstein argues that solipsism, while containing a correct insight, cannot be expressed in language but rather shows itself. The limits of language (the language I understand) are the limits of my world, indicating that the world is my world.
Themes in this chapter
Solipsism and the Subject
Directly addresses solipsism as a truth that shows itself, linking the limits of language to the limits of the world.
Limits of Language and Thought
Emphasizes that the limits of language (which I understand) are the limits of my world.
Characters to notice
- Mr. Wittgenstein
Author of the remark; presents the key to understanding solipsism as a truth that shows itself.
Key passages
“In fact what solipsism means , is quite correct, only it cannot be said , but it shows itself.”
The core idea of solipsism is true, but it cannot be stated in language; it manifests itself.
Wittgenstein asserts the correctness of solipsism's meaning while denying its expressibility.
“That the world is my world, shows itself in the fact that the limits of the language ( the language which I understand) mean the limits of my world.”
The fact that the world is my world is revealed because the boundaries of the language I understand define the boundaries of my world.
Connects the limits of language to the limits of the individual's world, illustrating the self-showing nature of solipsism.