Welcome to the Jungle: The Problem of Language in Kierkegaard and Wittgenstein

Abstract

The problem of language is one of the great motivational forces behind the writings of both Kierkegaard and Wittgenstein. After clarifying this problem, the author endeavors to sketch the solutions offered by these two diverse philosophers. In the case of Wittgenstein, this takes the form of tracing the development of his notion of a "language-game." By contrast, a consideration of Kierkegaard raises the question of the deceptiveness of any solution. In what sense the expression of immediate experiences in language can be read as a "neat trick" is ultimately left for the reader to decide.