Full Idea
Up to a point, the reliance upon a close examination of the actual use of words is the best, and indeed the only sure, way in philosophy.
Gist of Idea
Close examination of actual word usage is the only sure way in philosophy
Source
Peter F. Strawson (Individuals:Essay in Descript Metaphysics [1959], Intro)
Book Reference
Strawson,Peter F.: 'Individuals: Essay in Descriptive Metaphysics' [Methuen University 1974], p.9
A Reaction
Probably the last bold assertion of ordinary language philosophy, though Strawson goes on the defend his 'deeper' version of the activity, which he says is 'descriptive metaphysics', rather than mere 'analysis'. Mere verbal analysis now looks hopeless.