more from Bertrand Russell

Single Idea 5423

[catalogued under 3. Truth / D. Coherence Truth / 2. Coherence Truth Critique]

Full Idea

If the law of contradiction itself were subjected to the test of coherence, we should find that, if we choose to suppose it false, nothing will any longer be incoherent with anything else.

Gist of Idea

If we suspend the law of contradiction, nothing will appear to be incoherent

Source

Bertrand Russell (Problems of Philosophy [1912], Ch.12)

Book Reference

Russell,Bertrand: 'The Problems of Philosophy' [OUP 1995], p.71


A Reaction

Russell is in error in treating coherence as if it was merely non-contradiction. If I see you as four feet tall today and six feet tall tomorrow, that is incoherent (to me) but not an actual contradiction. All accounts of truth need presuppositions.