From Rule Following to Productive Thinking: Reading the Philosophical Investigations in the Light of Gestalt Psychology

Ludwig Wittgenstein’s relation to Gestalt Psychology is typically understood through the lens of his engagement with Wolfgang Köhler’s work. Though valuable, this framing may obscure certain broader points similarity between methodological approach and school considered as a whole. In what follows I pursue line thought by comparing discussion rule-following in Philosophical Investigations Max Wertheimer’s concept productive thinking. argue that emphasis on shared public aspects phenomena counteracts tendency characterise Gestalts essentially private entities. suggest respect at least, closer than later philosophical orientation.