Communications in Humanities Research ISSN: 2753-7072
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Research Article

The Unity of the Limits — On Wittgenstein's Self, Language and Ethical Will

Xiyuan XuJilin University*

* Corresponding author: [email protected]

Abstract

This paper reconstructs the relationship between the self, language (the world), and value in Wittgenstein's Tractatus Logico-Philosophicus from the perspective of "limits," revealing their ontological unity. Language serves as the image of the world constructed by the self—a reflection of factual reality. The self functions as the transcendental condition and limit between language and the world, embodying both metaphysical subjectivity and ethical will. Value represents the transcendental stance of ethical will toward the world; it alters the meaning of the world rather than factual matters and remains unsayable. These three elements form an integrated structure: language expresses within limits, the self and ethical will transcend limits, while the value world beyond limits, though inexpressible, serves as the ultimate orientation of meaning. Limits are not mechanical or static divisions of the self, language, and value, but rather logical hubs for generating and transcending meaning. By demonstrating this unity, this paper aims to provide a holistic perspective for understanding Wittgenstein's early philosophical thoughts.

Keywords: limit; self; value; language; unity
Published: November 11, 2025
DOI: 10.54254/2753-7064/2025.NS29532
Volume: CHR Vol.91
pp. 184-192
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