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Single Idea 21543

[filed under theme 19. Language / D. Propositions / 1. Propositions ]

Full Idea

If p is a false affirmative proposition ...then it seems obvious that if we believe not-p we do know something true, so belief in not-p must be something which is not mere disbelief. This proves that there are negative propositions.

Gist of Idea

If p is false, then believing not-p is knowing a truth, so negative propositions must exist

Source

Bertrand Russell (Meinong on Complexes and Assumptions [1904], p.75)

Book Ref

Russell,Bertrand: 'Essays in Analysis', ed/tr. Lackey,Douglas [George Braziller 1973], p.75


A Reaction

This evidently assumes excluded middle, but is none the worse for that. But it sounds suspiciously like believing there is no rhinoceros in the room. Does such a belief require a fact?