ABSTRACT

In this paper the later Wittgenstein’s distinction between proofs and experiments and its place in his philosophy of mathematics is explored. Section I observes that his apriorism must also be considered in this context, for he makes a parallel division between the sorts of statements which proofs or experiments establish. Sections II and III provide, respectively, background material about the proof/experiment distinction and the rather persuasive evidence Wittgenstein gives for drawing it. There is some discussion of his thesis that proofs are models or rules governing empirical investigation, but lengthier comments about certain fundamental, “logical” features he ascribes to proofs.