Single Idea 6006

[catalogued under 5. Theory of Logic / L. Paradox / 6. Paradoxes in Language / a. The Liar paradox]

Full Idea

The liar paradox of Eubulides says 'if you state that you are lying, and state the truth, then you are lying'.

Gist of Idea

If you say truly that you are lying, you are lying

Source

report of Eubulides (fragments/reports [c.390 BCE]) by R.M. Dancy - Megarian School

Book Reference

'Encyclopedia of Classical Philosophy', ed/tr. Zeyl,Donald J. [Fitzroy Dearborn 1997], p.328


A Reaction

(also Cic. Acad. 2.95) Don't say it, then. These kind of paradoxes of self-reference eventually lead to Russell's 'barber' paradox and his Theory of Types.