Abstract

The “Lecture on Ethics” is a unique work in Ludwig Wittgenstein's philosophical output. It is the sole work Wittgenstein prepared exclusively about ethics. This chapter discusses the difference between what Wittgenstein said in his lecture on ethics and the claptrap spoken by others. Explaining the difference requires introducing Wittgenstein's view of ethics, beginning with his main point in the Lecture. The main point of this paper is that the experiences that give rise to thoughts of the ethical are paradoxical in form. The chapter shows that Wittgenstein's view of ethics in the lecture is serious and severe, but is contrary neither to common sense nor to the common idea of the character of ethics. Talking about the essence of ethics – the absolute good – is strictly nonsense but it indicates something in each of us to which Wittgenstein relates with, possibly silent, respect.