Routledge Philosophy Guidebook to Wittgenstein and the Philosophical Investigations (Routledge Philosophy Guidebooks)

Rating:
Summary: An excellent primer on Wittgenstein
Review: Having read numerous "begginer" introductions to Wittgenstein, the Routledge guidebook has definitely been the best! Its focus on the Philosophical Investigations, and it includes (along with others) sections on rule following, Wittgenstein's style, his critique of Saint Agustine's theory of naming, and the private language argument. Strongly recommend for those attempting to get a grasp of such a difficult to understand philosopher.

Rating:
Summary: Good but not the Best
Review: Having read numerous "begginer" introductions to Wittgenstein, the Routledge guidebook has definitely been the best! Its focus on the Philosophical Investigations, and it includes (along with others) sections on rule following, Wittgenstein's style, his critique of Saint Agustine's theory of naming, and the private language argument. Strongly recommend for those attempting to get a grasp of such a difficult to understand philosopher.

Rating:
Summary: Good but not the Best
Review: Marie McGinn does a good job at highlighting many of the themes in the Philosophical Investigations. But at the same time her analysis strays from many of the traditional interpretations. Portions of her interpretation do not stay within the context of the book which in turn, gives a misleading impression of Wittgenstein's thought. It needs to be kept in mind that although Wittgenstein's analysis of language is directed at many of the empty claims of metaphysics caused by a confusion of our grammar and at redirecting philosophy to focus on language, it does not follow that he is suggesting to do away with traditional philosophy. I felt that McGinn's book tends to give this misleading impression. I would suggest getting secondary sources done by Wittgenstein's students such as Norman Malcom. Also consider looking at P.M.L.S. Hacker who has done a two volume line by line analysis of the Investigations.