Georg Henrik von Wright

Date of Birth: June 14, 1916

Zodiac Sign: Gemini

Date of Death: June 16, 2003

Biography

Georg Henrik von Wright was a distinguished Finnish philosopher, renowned for his work in logic, the philosophy of language, and the philosophy of action. Born into a noble family in Helsinki, Finland, von Wright completed his education at the University of Helsinki, where he received his Ph.D. in 1941. His early academic career was influenced by the work of the Vienna Circle and Ludwig Wittgenstein, whom he succeeded as a professor at the University of Cambridge from 1948 to 1951 after Wittgenstein’s retirement. Von Wright made significant contributions to modal logic, deontic logic, and the philosophy of norms. His seminal works include “An Essay in Modal Logic” (1951) and “Norm and Action” (1963). He was also known for his critical writings on the philosophy of science and humanism, advocating for the ethical responsibilities of scientists and intellectuals in society. Throughout his career, von Wright received numerous accolades, including honorary doctorates from several prestigious universities and memberships in various academies of science and letters. He continued to write and lecture extensively until his death in 2003.

5 Interesting Facts about Georg Henrik von Wright

1. Georg Henrik von Wright was a student and close associate of Ludwig Wittgenstein and edited Wittgenstein’s later works after his death.

2. He was the first non-British philosopher to hold the prestigious position of Professor of Philosophy at the University of Cambridge.

3. Von Wright’s work on deontic logic has been influential in the development of formal ethics and the logic of norms.

4. He was a critic of modern technological society and wrote extensively on the moral implications of scientific progress.

5. Von Wright was a member of the Finnish Academy of Science and Letters and the British Academy, reflecting his international influence and recognition.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Georg Henrik von Wright

1. “To understand a question is half an answer.”

2. “Philosophy is not a theory but an activity.”

3. “The limits of language mean the limits of my world.”

4. “Science can tell us what is possible, but not what is right.”

5. “Human freedom is not a state but an act, an ongoing struggle.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Georg Henrik von Wright’s exact net worth is not publicly documented, but as an academic and philosopher, his wealth was primarily intellectual and not financial. His highest net worth would be reflected in the esteem and respect he garnered within the academic community.

Children

Georg Henrik von Wright had three children with his wife, Elisabeth von Wright (née von Meyendorff). Their names are: 1. Johan von Wright 2. Thomas von Wright 3. Henrik von Wright