Frank Plumpton Ramsey (1903–1930)

Best exposure I've experienced to the relationship between logic and mathematics. Ramsey also foreshadows the late 20th century direction in economics and sociology. Custom symbols are tough to follow, but Ramsey is also extremely efficient in his use of English to explain his points. He resolves gaps in arguments by Russell and Wittgenstein. Beginning of his paper Philosophy: "Philosophy must be of some use and we must take it seriously; it must clear out thoughts and so our actions. Or else it is a disposition we have to check, and an inquiry to see that this is so; i.e. the chief proposition of philosophy is that philosophy is nonsense. And again we must then take seriously that it is nonsense, and not pretend, as Wittgenstein does, that it is important nonsense!" His early death in 1930 at age 26 was a great loss.… (more)