Single Idea 21593

[catalogued under 5. Theory of Logic / D. Assumptions for Logic / 1. Bivalence]

Full Idea

Aristotle rejected bivalence for future contingencies; it is true or false that there will be a sea-fight tomorrow.

Gist of Idea

In talking of future sea-fights, Aristotle rejects bivalence

Source

report of Aristotle (On Interpretation [c.330 BCE], 19a31) by Timothy Williamson - Vagueness 1.2

Book Reference

Williamson,Timothy: 'Vagueness' [Routledge 1996], p.13


A Reaction

I'd never quite registered this simple account of the sea-fight. As Williamson emphasises, one should not lightly reject the principle of bivalence. Has Aristotle entered a slippery slope?