Difference between only if and if and only if

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers on the distinctions between the phrases "only if" and "if and only if" in logical expressions. Participants explore the implications of these phrases in propositional logic, examining their meanings and relationships to each other.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • Post 1 presents a breakdown of logical expressions involving "if" and "only if," suggesting that #3 may be incorrect but not providing a clear reason.
  • Post 2 asserts that #3 is wrong, explaining that the implication "if q, then p" does not align with the definition of "only if," as it allows for p to occur independently of q.
  • Post 4 reiterates that "p only if q" translates to "q if p," indicating that the first line in #3 does not support the second line's implication.
  • Post 5 provides a practical example to illustrate the distinction, arguing that having a TV does not necessitate watching a specific show, thereby challenging the equivalence of "p only if q" and "q implies p."

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally disagree on the interpretation of #3, with some asserting it is incorrect while others provide reasoning to support their views. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the precise implications of the terms.

Contextual Notes

There are limitations in the discussion regarding the definitions and interpretations of logical terms, as well as the assumptions underlying the examples provided.

ainster31
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Difference between "only if" and "if and only if"

$$1.\quad p\quad if\quad q\\ \equiv if\quad q\quad then\quad p\\ \equiv q\rightarrow p\\ \\$$$$2.\quad p\quad only\quad if\quad q\\ \equiv if\quad p\quad then\quad q\\ \equiv p\rightarrow q\\ \\$$$$3.\quad p\quad only\quad if\quad q\\ \equiv if\quad q\quad then\quad p\\ \equiv q\rightarrow p\\ \\$$$$4.\quad p\quad iff\quad q\\ \equiv (p\rightarrow q)\wedge (q\rightarrow p)$$

I think #3 is wrong but I'm not sure why.
 
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Yes, #3 is wrong. The second line says if q, then p, but we know that p may only occur when q does from the first line.

If q, then p allows p to occur without q.
 
p only if q
⇔ q if p.
So the first line in (3) does not imply the second line.
 
I watch the "Teletubbies" show only if I have a TV. I have a TV, but I would rather tear out my eyes than watch Teletubbies. So p only if q is not the same as q implies p.
 

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