Title: Ludwig Wittgenstein on Religion
Subject Classification:  Philosophy, Religion and Faith  
BIC Classification: HP, HR
BISAC Classification: PHI022000, PHI046000, REL051000
Binding: Hardback, eBook
Planned publication date: Jan 2026
ISBN (Hardback): 978-1-83711-289-0
ISBN (eBook): 978-1-83711-290-6

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Description

Ludwig Wittgenstein on Religion aims to complete one of the most important aspects of Wittgenstein's life. The uncertainty which some of his close friends displayed about whether Wittgenstein was a religious person, constitutes the central topic of this book.

One student and close friend of Wittgenstein, G.E.M. Anscombe, dismissed the claim that he was a religious person on the grounds that, according to her, Wittgenstein did not go to Church nor take the Sacraments, and therefore could not be regarded as a religious person. Another friend of Wittgenstein, Norman Malcolm, wrote a book on the subject: Wittgenstein: a Religious Point of View, years after the latter's death but could only conclude that "one can say with confidence that (Wittgenstein) knew the demands of religion... he was as qualified as any philosopher ever has been what it might mean to see the problems of philosophy from a religious point of view”. Peter Winch who also contributed to Malcolm's book, tells us that Wittgenstein states that "what is most fundamental in a religious life is not the affirmation of creeds, nor even prayer and worship but rather doing good deeds, helping others in concrete ways, treating their needs as equal to one's own, opening one's heart to them, not being cold or contemptuous, but loving.". Winch concludes about Wittgenstein's remarks that he “saw philosophical problems from a religious point of view" but argues that he does not know, and cannot answer with any confidence.

This uncertainty from both Malcolm and Winch seems to have reached a stalemate which perhaps requires a theological intervention that by its nature should open up this whole discussion to seek an adequate solution.

Biography

Author(s):  Dr. Patrick Quinn is a lecturer in Philosophy at Lumen Dominican Campus, Dublin, Ireland.

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