Single Idea 18730

[catalogued under 1. Philosophy / C. History of Philosophy / 1. History of Philosophy]

Full Idea

If philosophy were a matter of choice between rival theories, then it would be sound to teach it historically. But if it is not, then it is a fault to teach it historically, because it is quite unnecessary; we can tackle the subject direct.

Gist of Idea

The history of philosophy only matters if the subject is a choice between rival theories

Source

Ludwig Wittgenstein (Lectures 1930-32 (student notes) [1931], C V A)

Book Reference

Wittgenstein,Ludwig: 'Lectures in Cambridge 1930-32', ed/tr. Lee,Desmond [Blackwell 1980], p.74


A Reaction

Wittgenstein was a bit notorious for not knowing the history of the subject terribly well, and this explains why. Presumably our tackling the subject direct will not have the dreadful consequence of producing yet another theory.

Related Idea

Idea 16604 Philosophy consists of choosing between Plato, Aristotle and Democritus [Pasnau]