The following text is from a philosophy of language article.
Private language arguments question whether meaningful language could exist for a solitary speaker alone. Wittgenstein famously contended that rule-following requires public criteria for correctness: one cannot privately distinguish between following a rule and merely thinking one is. Critiques of this position invoke brain-in-vat scenarios or point to diary entries comprehensible only to their authors. The debate interweaves semantics with deep questions about mind and intersubjectivity.
What is the primary purpose of the text?
To present a philosophical debate about language and its broader implications
To provide biographical information about Ludwig Wittgenstein
To argue definitively that private languages are impossible
To compare different human languages for private expression
Correct Answer: A
Choice A is the best answer. The text presents the private language argument, Wittgenstein's view, critiques, and notes broader implications (mind, intersubjectivity).
- Evidence: The text presents the question: "question whether meaningful language could exist for a solitary speaker." It cites Wittgenstein: "contended that rule-following requires public criteria." It notes critiques: "invoke brain-in-vat scenarios." It notes implications: "interweaves semantics with deep questions."
- Reasoning: The passage maps out a philosophical debate from its core question to its wider significance.
- Conclusion: The purpose is to present a debate and implications.
💡 Strategy: Track the debate: Can I have a secret language? Wittgenstein says no.
Choice B is incorrect because biography isn't provided. Choice C is incorrect because critiques are also presented. Choice D is incorrect because human languages aren't compared.