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Single Idea 7701

[from 'Ontology' by Dale Jacquette, in 5. Theory of Logic / L. Paradox / 5. Paradoxes in Set Theory / d. Russell's paradox ]

Full Idea

The Barber Paradox refers to the non-existent property of being a barber who shaves all and only those persons who do not shave themselves.

Gist of Idea

Can a Barber shave all and only those persons who do not shave themselves?

Source

Dale Jacquette (Ontology [2002], Ch. 9)

Book Reference

Jacquette,Dale: 'Ontology' [Acumen 2002], p.219


A Reaction

[Russell spotted this paradox, and it led to his Theory of Types]. This paradox may throw light on the logic of indexicals. What does "you" mean when I say to myself "you idiot!"? If I can behave as two persons, so can the barber.