The Critique of Metaphysics: Carnap and Wittgenstein

Abstract

Logical positivists and Wittgenstein contended Philosophy’ s metaphysical function. Carnap based his critique on the criterion of the non-verifiability of metaphysical sentences, while Wittgenstein accentuated the prevalence of ordinary language. Carnap’s and Wittgenstein’s main arguments are thoroughly examined. What is being shown, is that neither Carnap nor Wittgenstein considered seriously the exegetical dimension of metaphysical ideas and their hermeneutical meaning.