If we spoke a different language, we would perceive a somewhat different world.
It is so characteristic, that just when the mechanics of reproduction are so vastly improved, there are fewer and fewer people who know how the music should be played.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote highlights the disconnection between technological advancements and understanding or appreciation of fundamental processes.
Ludwig Wittgenstein suggests that while advancements in technology, particularly in reproduction mechanisms, are making things easier, there is a growing disconnect with the underlying knowledge or artistry needed to utilize these advancements effectively. This serves as a critique of a society that may prioritize efficiency and capability over understanding and cultural depth, implying that true mastery involves more than just technical skill.
Themes
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be used in a discussion about the importance of arts education in an era dominated by technology.
More from Ludwig Wittgenstein
All quotes βOne cannot guess how a word functions. One has to look at its use and learn from that. But the difficulty is to remove the prejudice which stands in the way of doing this. It is not a stupid prejudice.
No one likes having offended another person; hence everyone feels so much better if the other person doesn't show he's been offended. Nobody likes being confronted by a wounded spaniel. Remember that. It is much easier patiently - and tolerantly - to avoid the person you have injured than to approach him as a friend. You need courage for that.
It's impossible for me to say one word about all that music has meant to me in my life. How, then, can I hope to be understood?
Nothing is so difficult as not deceiving oneself.
My day passes between logic, whistling, going for walks, and being depressed. I wish to God that I were more intelligent and everything would finally become clear to me - or else that I needn't live much longer.
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I don't want what I am saying to sound like a prophecy or anything like an analysis of modern society... these are only feelings I have, and I am the least speculative man on earth.
I wiped away the weeds and foam, I fetched my sea-born treasures home; But the poor, unsightly, noisome things Had left their beauty on the shore, With the sun and the sand and the wild uproar.