WITTGENSTEIN ON LANGUAGE VARIATION, THE HEGEMONY, AND INTER-DEPENDENCY OF INDIGENOUS LANGUAGES

Abstract

Purpose: In this essay, we argue that, language is multifaceted, interdependent, and autonomous in its indigenous applications to meanings and reality and for different culture and people.    Findings: The multifaceted roles of language in the development of humanity are readily perceived in the different languages in the world, and in which each culture or community interpret or describe meanings and reality.However, Wittgenstein had in TractatusLogico-Philosophicus, insisted that the function of language is single, definite and must observe the rules of syntax; else we make nonsense of the symbolic nature of language. He agrees with the Logical Positivists that for language not to mislead and misinterpret meanings and reality, it must be analytic and as such must picture or mirror the state of affairs. He insisted that, “whereof we cannot speak,thereof we must be silent”.In the later period, the emphasis shifts dramatically to the actions of people and the role their linguistic activities play in their lives. Thus whereas in the Tractatus, language is placed in a static, formal relationship with the world; in the later work (Philosophical Investigations), Wittgenstein emphasizes its use in the contexts of everyday social activities of ordering, exercising, advising, requesting, and measuring concern for each other. These different activities are thought of as so many “language game”that together make up the form of life. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: Therefore, to resolve the conflicts and politics of language development and superiority, (international or local) humanity needs to acknowledge the flexibility and inter-dependency of languages on which development, trade-relations, science, and religion strives.