Methodus Poetico-Philosophicus

Abstract

A plausible interpretation of Wittgenstein’s claim that philosophers should be poets can be constructed by drawing together: (1) his conception of the goal of philosophy as the ethical and existential transformation or transvaluation of both the philosopher and the philosophical interlocutor via creative and engagement-inspiring methodological means. (2) His arguments against privacy in language or knowledge of experience and (3) his explication of forms of life and ‘anthropological’ philosophy. The resultant interpretation has radical implications for philosophical methodology and enables the development of space for greater creativity in philosophical authorship and practice.