Single Idea 14432

[catalogued under 8. Modes of Existence / A. Relations / 4. Formal Relations / a. Types of relation]

Full Idea

The relation of 'asymmetry' is incompatible with the converse. …The relation 'husband' is asymmetrical, so that if a is the husband of b, b cannot be the husband of a.

Gist of Idea

'Asymmetry' is incompatible with its converse; a is husband of b, so b can't be husband of a

Source

Bertrand Russell (Introduction to Mathematical Philosophy [1919], V)

Book Reference

Russell,Bertrand: 'Introduction to Mathematical Philosophy' [George Allen and Unwin 1975], p.42


A Reaction

This is to be contrasted with 'non-symmetrical', where there just happens to be no symmetry.