What the study found
The article argues that Wittgenstein’s philosophy is naturalistic because of its anti-scientistic basis, which comes from the autonomy of philosophical practice. It also argues that his treatment of religion does not require supernaturalism.
Why the authors say this matters
The authors suggest this matters because Wittgenstein’s anti-scientism and non-supernaturalism may help rethink methodological naturalism, meaning the view that philosophical inquiry should proceed by naturalistic methods. The study also suggests that the usual distinction between cognitivist and non-cognitivist approaches to religion may need reconsideration.
What the researchers tested
The author also considers how Wittgenstein’s position relates to cognitivist and non-cognitivist approaches to religion.
What worked and what didn't
The article argues that Wittgenstein’s anti-scientism supports a naturalistic reading of his philosophy. It also argues that, even if religious utterances are treated as having supernatural content, this content is not incorporated into his philosophical practice, so his philosophy of religion may be cognitivist without allowing supernaturalism.
What to keep in mind
The abstract does not describe empirical data or a comparative study; it presents an interpretive philosophical argument. It also does not give detailed limits beyond the scope of Wittgenstein’s philosophy and its interpretation in philosophy of religion.
Key points
- The article argues that Wittgenstein’s philosophy is naturalistic because of its anti-scientific stance.
- It says Wittgenstein’s philosophy of religion does not permit supernaturalism.
- The author links this reading to the autonomy of philosophical practice.
- The abstract says the cognitivist/non-cognitivist distinction in religion may need reconsideration.
- The study suggests Wittgenstein’s position may help rethink methodological naturalism.
Disclosure
- Research title:
- Wittgenstein’s anti-scientism is presented as compatible with naturalism
- Authors:
- Aleksei Yuryevich Rakhmanin
- Institutions:
- University of Helsinki
- Publication date:
- 2026-03-30
- OpenAlex record:
- View
- Image credit:
- Moritz Nähr, Wikimedia Commons, Public domain
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