On Interpretation
by Aristotle
'On Interpretation' Summary
The work begins by analyzing simple categoric propositions, and draws a series of basic conclusions on the routine issues of classifying and defining basic linguistic forms, such as simple terms and propositions, nouns and verbs, negation, the quantity of simple propositions (primitive roots of the quantifiers in modern symbolic logic), investigations on the excluded middle (what to Aristotle is not applicable to future tense propositions—the problem of future contingents), and on modal propositions.
The first five chapters deal with the terms that form propositions. Chapters 6 and 7 deal with the relationship between affirmative, negative, universal and particular propositions. These relationships are the basis of the well-known square of opposition. The distinction between universal and particular propositions is the basis of modern quantification theory. The last three chapters deal with modalities. Chapter 9 is famous for the discussion of the sea-battle. (If it is true that there will be a sea-battle tomorrow, then it is true today that there will be a sea-battle. Thus a sea-battle is apparently unavoidable, and thus necessary. Another interpretation would be: that we cannot know that which has not yet come to pass. In other words: if there is a sea battle tomorrow then it is true today that tomorrow there will be a sea battle. So, only if we can know whether or not there will be a sea battle tomorrow then can we know if there will be a sea battle).
Book Details
Language
EnglishOriginal Language
GreekPublished In
Author
Aristotle
Greece
Aristotle (384–322 BC) was a Greek philosopher and polymath during the Classical period in Ancient Greece. Taught by Plato, he was the founder of the Lyceum, the Peripatetic school of philosophy...
More on AristotleDownload eBooks
Listen/Download Audiobook
- Select Speed
Related books
The Story of Alchemy and the Beginnings of Chemistry by M. M. Pattison Muir
A light journey through the history of chemistry, from its start in the obscure mysteries of alchemy to what was, for the author, the cutting edge of...
Categories by Aristotle
The Categories is a text from Aristotle's Organon that enumerates all the possible kinds of things that can be the subject or the predicate of a propo...
Philosophy and Fun of Algebra by Mary Everest Boole
This short book, Philosophy and Fun of Algebra, is meant to be read by children and introduces algebra and logic. She uses the word “algebra” broadly,...
On Generation and Corruption by Aristotle
On Generation and Corruption also known as On Coming to Be and Passing Away is a treatise by Aristotle. Like many of his texts, it is both scientific...
A Popular History of France from the Earliest Times vol 5 by Francois Guizot
François Pierre Guillaume Guizot (October 4, 1787 -September 12, 1874) was a French historian, orator, and statesman. Guizot was a dominant figure in...
Education by Ellen White
Ellen White said that one of the most delicate tasks in life was working with youthful minds. Teaching should be varied which can make it possible for...
Bird World: A Bird Book for Children by Jenny H. Stickney
It is an engaging and educational book that introduces young readers to the fascinating world of birds. Through its delightful pages, this book provid...
Home Education Series Vol. II: Parents and Children Charlotte Mason by Charlotte Mason
In "Home Education Series Vol. II: Parents and Children" by Charlotte Mason, a world of profound insight and empowerment awaits. Like a guiding light...
Reviews for On Interpretation
No reviews posted or approved, yet...