Men of Ideas — Season 1, Episode 5: The Two Philosophies of Wittgenstein

Episode synopsis

Ludwig Wittgenstein developed two linguistic philosophies: one studies language as a way of giving picture-meanings to objects; the other studies the ways language is used to create different impressions. In this program, world-renowned author and professor Bryan Magee and Oxford professor Anthony Quinton dissect the two philosophies, and discuss their influence on anthropology and sociology.

About Men of Ideas

A captivating voyage into the world of intellectual exploration, where host Bryan Magee engages in illuminating dialogues with some of the most distinguished thinkers of the last century. Join Magee in riveting conversations with eminent guests like Herbert Marcuse, A. J. Ayer, John Searle, Noam Chomsky, Iris Murdoch, and W.V. Quine, as they unravel the complexities of philosophy, language, politics, and culture. From the radical reevaluation of Marxism by Herbert Marcuse to the profound insights on language by John Searle and Noam Chomsky, this series presents a tapestry of thought that has shaped our understanding of existence. With each episode, "Men of Ideas" offers a unique window into the minds of these leading philosophers, making it an intellectually invigorating experience for both avid scholars and curious minds alike.

More episodes from Season 1

• E1An Introduction to Philosophy
• E2Marxist Philosophy
• E3Marcuse and the Frankfurt School
• E4Martin Heidegger and Modern Existentialism
• E6Logical Positivism and its Legacy
• E7The Spell of Linguistic Philosophy
• E8Moral Philosophy
• E9The Ideas of Quine
• E10The Philosophy of Language
• E11The Ideas of Chomsky
• E12The Philosophy of Science
• E13Philosophy and Politics