WITTGENSTEIN AND PROGRESS

Abstract

In this article, I consider the concept of progress and Ludwig Wittgenstein’s attitude towards it. The difficulty we face when attempting to unambiguously define and even understand such a phenomenon as progress gives rise to some confusion in our perceptions and analysis. Moreover, this difficulty may distort our understanding of certain philosophers’ thoughts on progress. Given that Wittgenstein lived during a time of remarkable scientific discoveries, but also of tragic historical events, examining his thoughts on progress seems both intriguing and fruitful. The aim of this article is not to identify any specific stance that Wittgenstein articulated with regard to progress, but rather to attempt to demonstrate that today many of his ideas can be effectively utilised to better understand progress and its role.