In his “Lecture on Ethics,” Ludwig Wittgenstein contends that language, being inherently suited to describing the natural world, is incapable of capturing experiences of absolute or supernatural value that transcend it. Yet, as Wittgenstein demonstrates, we often feel the urge to speak about experiences of absolute value, such as witnessing miracles, feeling utterly safe, marveling at the existence of the world, and holding the deep conviction of having lived a wonderful life. Do we agree with Wittgenstein’s view on the limits of language and its relationship to transcendent experiences? What significance do we ascribe to such experiences, and how do they shape our understanding of ethics?

On Wednesday, February 19, at 6 PM join us for an engaging discussion of Wittgenstein on ethics with Megan Laverty, director of the Columbia Teachers College Program in Philosophy and Education.