Single Idea 12595

[catalogued under 5. Theory of Logic / A. Overview of Logic / 1. Overview of Logic]

Full Idea

There is as yet no substantial theory of inference or reasoning. To be sure, logic is well developed; but logic is not a theory of inference or reasoning. Logic is a theory of implication and inconsistency.

Gist of Idea

We have a theory of logic (implication and inconsistency), but not of inference or reasoning

Source

Gilbert Harman ((Nonsolipsistic) Conceptual Role Semantics [1987], 12.2.2)

Book Reference

Harman,Gilbert: 'Reasoning Meaning and Mind' [OUP 1999], p.212


A Reaction

One problem is that animals can draw inferences without the use of language, and I presume we do so all the time, so it is hard to see how to formalise such an activity.