MHB A question on consistency in propositional logic.

Click For Summary
The discussion centers on a theorem in natural deduction regarding the inconsistency of hypotheses. It highlights a specific case where the set H contains a single atomic proposition p0, leading to the conclusion that {p0} implies ~p0, which is deemed impossible. Participants clarify that the theorem requires negation of phi, and in this case, phi should be p0, resulting in {p0} implying p0 instead. This correction emphasizes the importance of correctly applying the theorem's conditions. The conversation concludes with an acknowledgment of the misunderstanding in the initial application of the theorem.
Mathelogician
Messages
35
Reaction score
0
Hi everybody!

We have a theorem in natural deduction as follows:
Let H be a set of hypotheses:
====================================
H U {~phi) is inconsistent => H implies (phi).
====================================
Now the question arises:

Let H={p0} for an atom p0. So H U{~p0}={p0 , ~p0}.
We know that {p0 , ~p0} is inconsistent, so by our theorem we would have:
{p0} implies ~p0.
Which we know is impossible.(because for example it means that ~p0 is a semantical consequence of p0).

Now what's wrong here?
Thanks
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Well, your theorem or schema is negating the phi, which you're not doing. In your example, you should end up with {p0} implies p0. No doubt Evgeny can correct any mistakes I just made.
 
Ackbach said:
Well, your theorem or schema is negating the phi, which you're not doing. In your example, you should end up with {p0} implies p0.
You are right. If we apply the theorem to H U{~p0}, then phi from the theorem is p0. Therefore, the theorem concludes that {p0} implies p0.
 
Oooooooops!
 
There is a nice little variation of the problem. The host says, after you have chosen the door, that you can change your guess, but to sweeten the deal, he says you can choose the two other doors, if you wish. This proposition is a no brainer, however before you are quick enough to accept it, the host opens one of the two doors and it is empty. In this version you really want to change your pick, but at the same time ask yourself is the host impartial and does that change anything. The host...

Similar threads

  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
2K
Replies
2
Views
2K
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 9 ·
Replies
9
Views
4K
Replies
7
Views
2K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
3K
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
3K
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K