Ludwig Wittgenstein: 'What can be shown, cannot be said.'

What can be shown, cannot be said.

"What can be shown, cannot be said." This quote by Ludwig Wittgenstein, the renowned philosopher, carries a profound meaning that challenges common modes of communication and understanding. Wittgenstein suggests that there are certain concepts or experiences that defy verbal expression, and instead, require a different form of presentation or demonstration. This idea poses a thought-provoking question: can the limitations of language hinder our ability to fully grasp the complexity of the world around us?In its straightforward interpretation, Wittgenstein's quote suggests that there are aspects of human existence that cannot be adequately conveyed through speech or written language alone. These aspects may be deeply personal or profoundly intuitive, transcending the boundaries of linguistic expression. The quote urges us to recognize that words may fall short in capturing the nuances of certain experiences, emotions, or ideas.To truly appreciate the significance of Wittgenstein's statement, it is interesting to introduce the philosophical concept of phenomenology. Phenomenology, pioneered by Edmund Husserl and later developed by other philosophers like Maurice Merleau-Ponty, explores the nature of consciousness and how we experience the world. This perspective complements Wittgenstein's quote, further emphasizing that some aspects of existence cannot simply be captured by language.Phenomenologists suggest that human consciousness is embodied and embedded in our experiences and perceptions. They argue that our understanding of the world is not solely based on language and logical reasoning. Rather, our senses, emotions, and bodily experiences shape our comprehension of reality. Phenomenologists contend that there is a "pre-linguistic" dimension to our experiences that shapes our understanding of the world before language can intervene.While Wittgenstein's quote alludes to the inadequacy of language, phenomenology sheds light on the alternative ways of perceiving and comprehending reality. Phenomenologists argue that our bodily experiences, emotions, and intuition play a central role in how we understand and make sense of the world. For example, the feeling of falling in love, the taste of a perfectly cooked meal, or the awe-inspiring sight of a starry sky cannot be fully captured by language alone. These experiences require a direct and immediate engagement with our senses and bodily perceptions.While phenomenology and Wittgenstein's quote align in their recognition of the limitations of language, they offer distinct perspectives. Wittgenstein's focus is on the gap between what can be shown and what can be said, emphasizing the need for alternative modes of expression when language falls short. Phenomenology, on the other hand, emphasizes the role of embodied experiences and perceives language as one component of our broader understanding.In conclusion, Wittgenstein's quote, "What can be shown, cannot be said," challenges us to acknowledge the limitations of language in conveying certain experiences, thoughts, and emotions. It implies that there are aspects of human existence that elude verbal communication and necessitate alternative means of expression. By exploring phenomenology, we better understand that our bodily experiences play a vital role in shaping our understanding of the world. Language is a valuable tool, but it is not always sufficient to encapsulate the richness and complexity of our lived experiences. Wittgenstein's quote and phenomenology remind us to be open to alternative forms of expression and to appreciate the profound depth of human experience beyond the realm of words.