Abstract

This is the first commentary on Wittgenstein to deal with both the Tractatus and the Philosophical Investigations. Written as an introduction, it is clear, sober and balanced. Pitcher has made intelligent use of the recent spurt of critical literature on Wittgenstein. Unfortunately, the work is not really comprehensive. Technical logical and mathematical doctrines in the Tractatus are not discussed, nor is there a serious discussion of das Mystische and related topics. While Pitcher's careful attempt to reconstruct arguments is highly successful in clarifying the Tractatus, this technique is less successful in the explication of the Philosophical Investigations. Pitcher follows the conventional interpretation in dealing with the later and the earlier Wittgenstein, although some important similarities and continuities are suggested. This study should prove helpful to those who find Wittgenstein's two books bewildering.—R. J. B.