| MadSci Network: Other |
Hello Chad. > > Question: Is logic a complete and infallible method for approaching the > truth? From: Chad Drake Email: chadrake98@yahoo.com Grade: undergrad City: > Weatherford, State/Prov.: OK Country: USA Area: Other Message ID Number: > 937598762.Ot > I usually take the point of view that logic does not give us new truth, but allows us to see what we already know in a new light. No amount of logic will substitute for missing knowledge. The primary usefulness of logic is to uncover contradictions and to simplify our theories about the world. > What is the reliability of logic that is rational and reasonable? Does it > have faults? Can it be correct in its foundation and application, yet > wrong in its conclusions? > Theoretically logic is always correct. When wrong conclusions are reached, we say that either the logic was not valid ( ie: not logical ) or that some of the axioms and premises were false. If by foundation, you mean the premises and axioms to which the logic is applied, and if by application, you mean the logical process itself, then If the foundation is true, and the application is correct, then the conclusions will be correct. Logic is universal. It applies in all possible worlds. These points will be better illustrated with examples. I can have as axioms and premises (1) if it rains, I will get wet (2) It will rain today Conclusion: I will get wet today. If i do not get wet today, then either (1) or (2) must be false. (1) could be false by my having a very good umbrella and raincoat. (2) could be false by it not raining today. If you have some other examples in mind that you would like to discuss, email me at kermit@polaris.net Kermit Rose
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