Abstract
This paper examines how Martin Heidegger’s and Ludwig Wittgenstein’s postcards serve as both a transfer and manifestation of key components of their respective philosophies. Heidegger’s postcards blend existential reflections with everyday concerns, embodying his philosophy of “being-in-the-world.” His correspondence with Magda Stomps seamlessly integrates practical requests with profound thoughts on temporality and education, illustrating his belief in the deep integration of philosophical inquiry into daily life. These postcards reveal Heidegger’s phenomenological method, emphasizing the significance of mundane experiences. Conversely, Wittgenstein’s postcards, characterized by their brevity and enigmatic nature, reflect his analytic focus on language and meaning. His succinct messages to Bertrand Russell encapsulate complex philosophical issues, underscoring his view that meaning arises from linguistic context and use. Wittgenstein’s postcards highlight his commitment to clarity and precision, illustrating his principle that philosophical problems are deeply rooted in language games. Despite their differences, both Heidegger’s and Wittgenstein’s postcards underscore the profound value of deliberate, tangible correspondence in fostering deep intellectual exchanges and genuine human connections. They contrast sharply with the superficial and instantaneous nature of modern digital communication, emphasizing the lasting importance of thoughtful, tangible interactions.
Presenters
Christopher TroganProfessor, Interdisciplinary Studies, New York University - Gallatin School of Individualized Study, New York, United States
Details
Presentation Type
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session
Theme
2024 Special Focus—Traveling Concepts: The Transfer and Translation of Ideas in the Humanities
KEYWORDS
Heidegger, Wittgenstein, Postcards, Philosophy, Existentialism, Language, Meaning, Correspondence, Temporality, Phenomenology
