Symbolic logic

Symbolic logic is a logical technique that allows reduction of a logical argument stated in natural language to mathematical logic. This helps to avoid issues of semantics that plague many logical debates. A proof in symbolic logic is only as true as its premises.

Cogito ergo sum Logic and rhetoric

Key articles

Logical fallacy Syllogism Argument

General logic

Ad iram False dilemma Hierarchy of disagreement Pragmatic fallacy Professor of nothing Reasoning

Bad logic

Adding epicycles Appeal to shame Bait-and-switch Confounding factor Negative evidence Straw man v - t - e

Example

Let A be defined as "Water has memory of chemicals dissolved in it."
Let B be defined as "Nearly every chemical has been dissolved in the oceans at some point."
Let C be defined as "The oceans have memory of nearly every chemical."
Let D be defined as "The oceans are as effective a homeopathic treatment as anything you could buy."

Postulates:
1: A
2: B
3: A&B→C
4: C→D

Proof:
Line a: By 1, 2, and 3: C
Line b: By 4 and a:D

Conclusion:
D

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