Tractatus Logico-Philosophicus · Chapter
5.156 explained
Wittgenstein discusses probability as a generalization that arises from incomplete knowledge of a fact.
What happens
Wittgenstein discusses probability as a generalization that arises from incomplete knowledge of a fact. He argues that probability propositions are extracts from other propositions, serving as incomplete pictures of states of affairs when certainty is lacking.
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Narrative arc
Story tension across the book — this chapter sits in Falling action.
- Setup
- Escalation
- Breaking point
- Aftermath
- Closing
This passage marks the story’s dramatic climax because it presents the moment when the protagonist’s obsessive…
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Follow the arc while readingThemes in this chapter
- Picture Theory of Language
Probability propositions are described as incomplete pictures of states of affairs, yet still complete as pictures.
Characters to notice
- Mr. Wittgenstein
Author of the proposition; presents the analysis of probability.
Key passages
“Probability is a generalization. It involves a general description of a propositional form.”
Probability generalizes by describing the form of propositions rather than specific facts.
Wittgenstein ties probability to the logical form of propositions.
“Only in default of certainty do we need probability.”
Probability is only necessary when we lack certain knowledge.
Highlights the epistemic role of probability.
“The probability proposition is, as it were, an extract from other propositions.”
A probability statement is derived from other propositions.
Probability is not primitive but derived from logical relations.
