Course Catalogue

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This course discusses Wittgenstein's later philosophy, as published in the Philosophical Investigations. Issues include Wittgenstein's views on the philosophy of language, philosophical psychology, and the underpinnings of Classical Empiricism.

Two lectures per week for 9 weeks, plus four seminars. The course may not run every year. Options running this year are available on MyCampus.

Standard entry to Masters at College level

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The standard assessments for this course are:

■ 2 x Essay (2500 words) - 100%

If required, for instance where a disability prevents a student from undertaking a specific method of assessment, the following alternatives are available:

■ There is no alternative to the essays, but flexible deadlines can be offered as reasonable adjustments (students should follow the usual process for extensions)

Further reasonable adjustments may be provided where necessary. Students are encouraged to consult with the course convenor.

The course aims to:

■ Explore Wittgenstein's later reflections on how it is that the world may find representation in our language and thought.

■ Assess the significance of Wittgenstein's 'Philosophical Investigations' for the discipline of Philosophy

■ Develop in depth awareness of Wittgenstein's thinking in a range of significant areas

By the end of the course, students should be able to:

■ Analyse and assess Wittgenstein's later views on language, meaning, and the nature of philosophy as expounded in the Philosophical Investigations.

■ Give an exposition and account for the significance of Wittgenstein's concern with 'the Augustinian Theory of Language'.

■ Explain the concern with 'ostensive definition' in the Philosophical Investigations.

■ Give an account and assessment of Wittgenstein's discussions of how images and pictures are capable of representing and his criticisms of certain philosophical conceptions of how this might be achieved.

■ Critically explain his concern with meaning and understanding in the Philosophical Investigations, in particular his concern to deny that we might understand these notions in terms of processes or events in the mind or brain.

■ Give an overview and assessment of the philosophical method that the Philosophical Investigations espouses.

Assessment for this course is at Masters Level.