The Unexpected Hanging Problem

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In summary, the conversation discusses the unexpected hanging paradox and the question of its significance in philosophy. The participants analyze the paradox and its logical flaws, ultimately concluding that the premise of the problem is internally inconsistent. They also discuss the intuitive nature of the paradox and how it is often hidden in the formulation of the premise.
  • #36
fuzziness might be applied to the truthfulness of the original statements.
 
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  • #37
I don't accept this paradox..

" He begins by concluding that the "surprise hanging" can't be on Friday, as if he hasn't been hanged by Thursday, there is only one day left - and so it won't be a surprise if he's hanged on Friday"

" He then reasons that the surprise hanging cannot be on Thursday either, because Friday has already been eliminated and if he hasn't been hanged by Wednesday night"

Friday has been eliminated on a condition, namely that he hasn't been hung before friday, which is a paradoxical statement
 
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<h2>1. What is "The Unexpected Hanging Problem"?</h2><p>The Unexpected Hanging Problem is a famous paradox in mathematics and logic that involves a prisoner sentenced to death by hanging, and a judge who presents the prisoner with an unexpected twist to the execution date.</p><h2>2. What is the paradox in "The Unexpected Hanging Problem"?</h2><p>The paradox lies in the fact that the prisoner is unable to logically determine the date of their execution, even though they are given new information about it. This leads to a contradiction, as the prisoner's reasoning leads to both the execution being expected and unexpected at the same time.</p><h2>3. How is "The Unexpected Hanging Problem" relevant in science?</h2><p>The Unexpected Hanging Problem is relevant in science as it highlights the limitations of logical reasoning and the potential for paradoxes to arise in seemingly simple situations. It also demonstrates the importance of considering all possible scenarios and information when making decisions and drawing conclusions.</p><h2>4. Is there a solution to "The Unexpected Hanging Problem"?</h2><p>There is no definitive solution to the Unexpected Hanging Problem, as it is a paradox that challenges traditional logic and reasoning. However, there have been various proposed solutions and explanations, each with their own flaws and limitations.</p><h2>5. What can we learn from "The Unexpected Hanging Problem"?</h2><p>The Unexpected Hanging Problem teaches us to be critical thinkers and to question our assumptions and reasoning. It also highlights the complexity of decision-making and the potential for unexpected outcomes, even in seemingly straightforward situations.</p>

1. What is "The Unexpected Hanging Problem"?

The Unexpected Hanging Problem is a famous paradox in mathematics and logic that involves a prisoner sentenced to death by hanging, and a judge who presents the prisoner with an unexpected twist to the execution date.

2. What is the paradox in "The Unexpected Hanging Problem"?

The paradox lies in the fact that the prisoner is unable to logically determine the date of their execution, even though they are given new information about it. This leads to a contradiction, as the prisoner's reasoning leads to both the execution being expected and unexpected at the same time.

3. How is "The Unexpected Hanging Problem" relevant in science?

The Unexpected Hanging Problem is relevant in science as it highlights the limitations of logical reasoning and the potential for paradoxes to arise in seemingly simple situations. It also demonstrates the importance of considering all possible scenarios and information when making decisions and drawing conclusions.

4. Is there a solution to "The Unexpected Hanging Problem"?

There is no definitive solution to the Unexpected Hanging Problem, as it is a paradox that challenges traditional logic and reasoning. However, there have been various proposed solutions and explanations, each with their own flaws and limitations.

5. What can we learn from "The Unexpected Hanging Problem"?

The Unexpected Hanging Problem teaches us to be critical thinkers and to question our assumptions and reasoning. It also highlights the complexity of decision-making and the potential for unexpected outcomes, even in seemingly straightforward situations.

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