Engaging with the Problems of Life Exploring the Notion of ‘Deep’ in Wittgenstein’s Philosophical Thoughts

Abstract

This paper explores Ludwig Wittgenstein’s notions of deep and shallow in order to understand his view of philosophy. Through examining these two notions, the paper argues that according to Wittgenstein, academic philosophy, especially logic and empirical sciences which solely depends on reason and rationality, is shallow and incapable of solving life’s complex problem. In the meantime, Wittgenstein is of the view that a deep philosophy is one which addresses life’s problems and questions by taking into consideration life in its entirety. Drawing inspiration from Jewish traditions or system of thought, Wittgenstein maintains that ‘there is no tragedy for a truly religious person’. For him, to be religious is to see life and life’s events as an interconnected whole. Such an approach to life and philosophy demands that we avoid treating them in isolation and instead view them as part of a larger, interconnected narrative, fostering a holistic approach to life. Within such a conception of life which is akin to a religious viewpoint, Wittgenstein believes that there is no tragedy since sufferings or problems are also integrated into a larger narrative, which denies an independent ontology to tragedy. Theorizing life within some logical or rational principles is difficult or impossible because such a system of philosophizing is intolerant to dilemmas or conflicts of ideas. Therefore, Wittgenstein suggests that philosophy is best understood and practiced in its traditional sense—as a way of life aimed at transforming our existence by deeply engaging with life’s questions and problems, integrating them into a broader framework as if to create a unified work of art.