Rule-Following Paradox

The Rule-Following Paradox questions how we can follow rules precisely when interpreting their meaning depends on understanding the rules themselves, which can be vague or open to interpretation. Essentially, it’s a dilemma: to obey a rule, we need to know what it exactly requires, but fully understanding that rule often relies on our prior interpretations, which might vary. This creates a circular problem—how can we be certain we’re following rules correctly if understanding those rules depends on interpretations that are themselves uncertain? It highlights the complex relationship between rules, language, and our ability to consistently apply them.