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Logic Quote by Ludwig Wittgenstein

“We cannot therefore say in logic: This and this there is in the world, that there is not. For that would apparently presuppose that we exclude certain possibilities, and this cannot be the case since otherwise logic must get outside the limits of the world: that is, if it could consider these…” quote by Ludwig Wittgenstein
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““We cannot therefore say in logic: This and this there is in the world, that there is not. For that would apparently presuppose that we exclude certain possibilities, and this cannot be the case since otherwise logic must get outside the limits of the world: that is, if it could consider these limits from the other side also.””

Ludwig Wittgenstein

About This Quote

Source Book: Tractatus Logico-Philosophicus, 1921

Logic cannot assert the existence or non‑existence of something without presupposing limits, which would push it beyond the world it describes.

In simple terms: Logic cannot claim something is or isn’t without stepping outside its own limits.

Key Takeaway

Recognize the boundaries of logical statements.

Themes

philosophy logic limits ontology

Mood

thoughtful analytical

Type

philosophical theoretical

When to use this quote

  • scientific theory formulation
  • philosophical debate
  • legal reasoning
  • ethical analysis

Key Concepts

Logical positivism semantic boundaries

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do we handle statements that exceed logical limits?
  • Can we trust logic when it must step outside reality?
A Different Perspective

Logic may be too abstract for practical decision‑making.

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