Single Idea 12196

[catalogued under 5. Theory of Logic / B. Logical Consequence / 8. Material Implication]

Full Idea

Philo (of Megara) says that a valid hypothetical syllogism is 'that which does not begin with a truth and end with a falsehood,' as for instance the syllogism 'If it is day, I converse,' when in fact it is day and I am conversing.

Gist of Idea

A valid hypothetical syllogism is 'that which does not begin with a truth and end with a falsehood'

Source

Sextus Empiricus (Outlines of Pyrrhonism [c.180], II.110)

Book Reference

Sextus Empiricus: 'Outlines of Pyrrhonism', ed/tr. Bury,R.G. [Prometheus 1990], p.132


A Reaction

Russell endorses this, and Rumfitt quotes it as the classic case of denying that there is any modal aspect (such as 'logical necessity') involved in logical consequence. He labels it 'material or Philonian consequence'.