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Single Idea 4633

[from 'The Philosopher's Toolkit' by J Baggini / PS Fosl, in 2. Reason / B. Laws of Thought / 3. Non-Contradiction ]

Full Idea

Anyone who denies the principle of non-contradiction simultaneously affirms it; it cannot be rationally criticised, because it is presupposed by all rationality.

Gist of Idea

You cannot rationally deny the principle of non-contradiction, because all reasoning requires it

Source

J Baggini / PS Fosl (The Philosopher's Toolkit [2003], §1.12)

Book Reference

Baggini,J and Fosl,P.S.: 'The Philosopher's Toolkit' [Blackwells 2003], p.37


A Reaction

Nietzsche certainly wasn't afraid to ask why we should reject something because it is a contradiction. The 'logic of personal advantage' might allow logical contradictions.