This book is an exposition and critique of Ludwig Wittgenstein's basic philosophical ideas. The interpretation it offers differs greatly from that current in the philosophical community today. At one time I was myself a party to the received view of Wittgenstein's philosophy and was among those who helped to foster it. My views began to change during the 1970s, but it was not until 1984 that I came fully to the realizations that form the basis of this book. In that year an early draft of the book was completed. Since then several people have read and commented on the original and succeeding drafts. Some expressed doubts about my interpretation, and their skepticism forced me to dig deeper and provide additional documentation. I offer them my thanks, and I hope that what I have now produced will meet with their approval. Others applauded my efforts, and I am most grateful for the encouragement they provided. I am especially indebted in this regard to William Davie. Special thanks are due to Frank Ebersole, to whom this book is dedicated. Without the benefit of his philosophical contributions over the last three decades this book could not have been written.

My wife, Annie, has provided constant encouragement and editorial assistance, without which this project might never have reached fruition. For this and much more she has my deepest gratitude.