What’s the Matter With Dark Matter?

Ludwig Wittgenstein, an influential 20th-century philosopher, introduced the concept of “Wittgenstein’s ladder” in his later work, particularly in his book “Philosophical Investigations.” This idea is closely related to his views on language and the nature of philosophy.

The ladder metaphor is used to illustrate the idea that philosophical problems often arise from misunderstandings or misuses of language. Wittgenstein suggests that philosophical confusion can be dispelled by recognizing the ways in which language is used and by clarifying the meanings of words.

The ladder analogy can be explained as follows:

1. Building the Ladder: Initially, when we encounter a philosophical problem or confusion, we may construct a conceptual framework or use certain words in a particular way. Wittgenstein likens this to building a ladder to reach a certain understanding.
2. Climbing the Ladder: Once the ladder (conceptual framework or language use) is in place, we use it to address the philosophical issue at hand. However, Wittgenstein argues that the ladder is not meant to be climbed indefinitely. It is a temporary tool for reaching a specific understanding.
3. Throwing Away the Ladder: After reaching the desired understanding, Wittgenstein suggests that we should discard the ladder. This means that once the clarification is achieved and the problem is understood in a new way, there is no need to hold onto the initial philosophical concepts or language that led to the confusion.

In essence, Wittgenstein’s ladder is a method for overcoming philosophical puzzles and confusion by examining and understanding the language that gives rise to these problems. It emphasizes the importance of recognizing how words are used in different contexts and discourages the tendency to create philosophical theories based on misunderstandings or misuse of language.

For Wittgenstein, the goal of philosophy is not to provide grand theories or solutions but to dissolve philosophical problems by exposing their linguistic origins. By understanding how language functions in everyday life, we can dispel the illusions that lead to philosophical confusion.