Ostensive definition

Definition

An ostensive definition is a way of defining a term or concept by directly pointing to examples or instances of what the term refers to, rather than using descriptive language. This method emphasizes the relationship between language and the world, showcasing how meanings can be conveyed through direct demonstration rather than explanation.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Ostensive definitions challenge traditional definitions by showing that understanding can come from direct experience instead of solely from verbal explanation.
2. In 'Philosophical Investigations', Wittgenstein uses ostensive definitions to argue that meaning is often grounded in public and shared experiences.
3. Wittgenstein highlights that ostensive definitions can be ambiguous; pointing at something doesn't always lead to a clear understanding of the term.
4. This type of definition emphasizes that the meaning of a word can change based on context and usage, reflecting how language is dynamic.
5. Ostensive definitions are particularly important in discussions about language learning, as they illustrate how children and learners grasp concepts through examples.

Review Questions

• How does an ostensive definition differ from traditional definitions, and what implications does this have for understanding language?
  • Ostensive definitions differ from traditional definitions by providing meaning through direct examples rather than through descriptions or synonyms. This approach emphasizes the practical use of language and highlights how meanings can shift based on context. The implication is that understanding language becomes more about recognizing instances in the world rather than memorizing abstract definitions, which aligns with Wittgenstein's view of language as a fluid tool shaped by usage.
• Discuss the role of ostensive definitions within Wittgenstein's broader critique of private language and meaning.
  • Ostensive definitions play a crucial role in Wittgenstein's critique of private language because they illustrate how meaning relies on shared public experiences rather than individual interpretation. By showing that definitions can be established through pointing to examples, Wittgenstein argues against the possibility of a private language that could be understood solely by an individual. This challenges the notion that one can create meanings in isolation, reinforcing the idea that language is inherently social.
• Evaluate the significance of ostensive definitions in understanding rule-following and its implications for meaning in everyday language.
  • The significance of ostensive definitions in understanding rule-following lies in their demonstration of how meanings are not fixed but arise from communal practices. In evaluating this connection, one sees that following a rule involves recognizing patterns through examples, much like how ostensive definitions work. This suggests that our grasp of language and rules is fundamentally shaped by context and shared experiences, highlighting the interdependence between language, meaning, and social interaction as presented in Wittgenstein's work.

Related terms

Private Language Argument: A philosophical notion by Wittgenstein suggesting that a language understandable only by an individual is impossible, as language requires public criteria for meaning.

Language Game: A concept introduced by Wittgenstein that describes the various contexts in which language is used, highlighting how meaning arises from social practices.

Rule Following: A discussion in Wittgenstein's work concerning how individuals interpret and apply rules in language, suggesting that understanding is shaped by communal practices.