An Examination of Information Systems Development Based on the Tractatus Logico-Philosophicus

DOI: https://doi.org/10.62517/jbdc.202601108

Author(s)

Yan Zhou, Zhentao Liu, Cheng Tang, Danlun Yang, Hengxi Mao, Yu Yang, Chunbo Wu

Affiliation(s)

AVICAS Generic Technology Co., Ltd, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, China

Abstract

To address the disconnect between practical business scenarios and digital transformation objectives and existing information systems, this paper adopts Ludwig Wittgenstein's "Tractatus Logico-Philosophicus" as a theoretical framework for in-depth analysis of information system development. First, drawing on "Image Theory," it establishes analogies between data models and logical representations of the real world, emphasizing that the structural integrity of Entity-Relationship (ER) diagrams is crucial for maintaining business fidelity. This establishes the ontological foundation for data governance. Second, the paper redefines software code implementation as "executable propositions" and interface definitions as logical connectors between functional modules, demonstrating how formal logic contracts can create clear, decoupled system architectures. Building on Wittgenstein's assertion that "the boundaries of language are the boundaries of the world," it reveals the epistemological limitations of information systems in encompassing business evolution and system objectives. Finally, aligning with Wittgenstein's later philosophical shifts, the paper advocates that information system development should avoid blind functional accumulation and data storage. Instead, it emphasizes logical coherence, using clear "connection rules" to enable system operation while embracing imperfections, transforming systems into flexible, user-friendly tools rather than fragile "perfect models."

Keywords

Digitization; Information System; Logic Philosophy; Data Model

References

[1] Ludwig Wittgenstein. Tractatus Logico-Philosophicus [M]. Translated by Han Linhe. Beijing: Commercial Press, 2013. [2] Wang Shan, Sashi Xuan. Database Systems: An Introduction [M]. 5th ed. Beijing: Higher Education Press, 2014. [3]Han Linhe. Wittgenstein's Philosophical Journey [M]. Kunming: Yunnan University Press, 1996.