Single Idea 7529

[catalogued under 1. Philosophy / F. Analytic Philosophy / 5. Linguistic Analysis]

Full Idea

That all sound philosophy should begin with an analysis of propositions is a truth too evident, perhaps, to demand a proof.

Gist of Idea

All philosophy should begin with an analysis of propositions

Source

Bertrand Russell (The Philosophy of Leibniz [1900], p.8), quoted by Ray Monk - Bertrand Russell: Spirit of Solitude

Book Reference

Monk,Ray: 'Bertrand Russell: Spirit of Solitude' [Vintage 1997], p.119


A Reaction

Compare Idea 483. The obvious response to Russell is that it must actually begin with a decision about which propositions are worth analysing - and that ain't easy. I like analysis, but philosophy is also a vision of truth.

Related Idea

Idea 483 Start a thesis with something undisputable [Diogenes of Apollonia]