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Sponsored Artificial Intelligence: A Modern Approach, Global Edition Artificial Intelligence: A Modern Approach, Global Edition

Author

Michael P. Wolf

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Jul 2026

A Trilemma for Defenders of the Private Language Argument

In this article, we consider several responses to Wittgenstein’s private language argument ( PLA ) beginning with A.J. Ayer’s “Robinson Crusoe” thought experiment from his 1954 symposium with Rush Rhees. While I’ll claim that Ayer’s response is unsound and doesn’t imperil a properly understood version of the PLA , it does point towards more enduring concerns. Even if private language is impossible, the PLA may not preclude the possibility of “solitary” speakers –isolated individuals who are the sole speakers of languages they develop, even though others could later learn these languages. I present an analysis of these problems as a trilemma for defenders of the PLA and offer a response that suggests some ways to defuse it.

Michael P. Wolf · 0 citations
Jul 2026

LLMs, Epistemic Responsibility, and the Prospects for AGI

It is argued for the necessity of certain social features in any system that can be ascribed general intelligence, and that the current generation of systems will not scale towards success on these fronts.

Michael P. Wolf · 0 citations