Language, Truth and Logic

Abstract

Classic introduction to objectives and methods of schools of empiricism and linguistic analysis, especially of the logical positivism derived from the Vienna Circle, [i]Language, Truth, and Logic[/i] is a work of philosophy by Alfred Jules Ayer, published in 1936 when Ayer was only 26 (though it was in fact completed by age 24). It was crucial in bringing some of the ideas of the Vienna Circle and the logical empiricists to the attention of the English-speaking world. – This book defines, explains, and argues for the verification principle of logical positivism, sometimes referred to as the criterion of significance or criterion of meaning. It explains how the principle of verifiability may be applied to the problems of philosophy. – Eight chapters: – I. The Elimination of Metaphysics; – II. The Function of Philosophy; – III. The Nature of Philosophical Analysis; – IV. The [i]A Priori[/i]; – V. Truth and Probability; – VI. Critique of Ethics and Theology; – VII. The Self and the Common World; – VIII. Solutions of Outstanding Philosophical Disputes.� M.-M. V.