Ethics, Language and the Development of Wittgenstein’s Thought in Ms 139a

Abstract

‘Lecture on Ethics’ was one of Wittgenstein’s first tangible products after returning
to Cambridge and philosophy in early 1929. The interest it holds for us is thus not
only to offer insight into Wittgenstein’s views on Ethics, but also into the
development of his thought during years spent prioritizing activities other than
philosophy. This paper will consider some themes regarding both the development of
his thought as well as the relationship between Ethics and language presented in the
manuscript version of ‘Lecture on Ethics’, Ms 139a.