more from Ludwig Wittgenstein

Single Idea 18736

[catalogued under 5. Theory of Logic / D. Assumptions for Logic / 3. Contradiction]

Full Idea

Contradiction is between one rule and another, not between rule and reality.

Gist of Idea

Contradiction is between two rules, not between rule and reality

Source

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

Book Reference

Wittgenstein,Ludwig: 'Lectures in Cambridge 1930-32', ed/tr. Lee,Desmond [Blackwell 1980], p.92


A Reaction

If I say 'he is sitting' and 'he is standing', it seems to be reality which produces the contradiction. What 'rule' could possibly do it? The rule which says sitting and standing are incompatible? But what makes that so?