Wittgenstein in Cambridge: Letters and Documents 1911 – 1951

This volume collects the most substantial correspondence and documents relating to Wittgenstein’s long association with Cambridge between the years 1911 and his death in 1951, including the letters he exchanged with his most illustrious Cambridge contemporaries Russell, Keynes, Moore, and Ramsey (and previously published as Cambridge Letters ). It provides a fascinating glimpse of the philosopher – appearing in turn withdrawn and affectionate, fierce and censorious, happy to collaborate and sure of his own judgement. Quarrels and reconciliations are documented, along with his struggles to publish the Tractatus, his retreat from the world and his eventual return to philosophy. This significantly expanded new volume adds to the existing collection some 200 previously unpublished letters and documents, including 40 letters from Wittgenstein to his friend and Cambridge contemporary, the economist Piero Sraffa; a substantial body of letters between Wittgenstein and some of his most celebrated pupils, including Rhees, Von Wright and Norman Malcolm; and minutes relating Wittgenstein’s incursions into University business and The Moral Sciences Club. This collection will prove a fascinating and unique read for anyone with an interest in Wittgenstein’s work, his character and the institutional and personal context within which they took shape.

Acknowledgements vi Introduction 1 List of Letters and Documents 15 Letters 29 Bibliography 481 Index of Correspondents and Document Sources 490 Index 492

Brian McGuinness is now Professor of the History of Philosophy at Siena. Past publications include the translation of Wittgenstein′s Tractatus Logico–Philosophicus (with David Pears) and A Life of Wittgenstein (Volume 1, Young Ludwig, 1988), the second volume of which is due to be published shortly.

“One could say, this book takes a close look at Wittgenstein’s face; and whether or not this will interest anyone, he was nonetheless a human being and so it may have value.”  ( The Dabbler , 18 May 2012)