Single Idea 6658

[catalogued under 20. Action / A. Definition of Action / 3. Actions and Events]

Full Idea

What is left over if I subtract the fact that my arm goes up from the fact that I raise my arm?

Gist of Idea

What is left over if I subtract my arm going up from my raising my arm?

Source

Ludwig Wittgenstein (Philosophical Investigations [1952], §621)

Book Reference

Wittgenstein,Ludwig: 'Philosophical Investigations', ed/tr. Anscombe,E. [Blackwell 1972], p.161


A Reaction

Wittgenstein's implication seems to be that nothing is left over, but I would have thought that the will was the thing left over when you decide to raise your arm, but then discover that you are paralysed.