A Question about Logical Consistency in Formal Logic

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In summary, the conversation discusses a homework problem where the conclusion is to be proven as logically consistent. The conclusion is (\neg P \wedge \neg\neg\neg P) \vee P, and the conversation raises doubts about its consistency. The conversation also mentions the use of inclusive-OR in the conclusion and questions if it is possible for both \neg P and P to be true. A possible reduction of the conclusion is also suggested.
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KiwiKid
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First of all, I wasn't quite sure in which (sub)forum to post this, so if it doesn't quite fit, feel free to move it. I'm having a very hard time solving this one (or even seeing if it's logically consistent), and any help would be very much appreciated.

Homework Statement


Give a formal proof for the following conclusion:
[itex](\neg P \wedge \neg\neg\neg P) \vee P[/itex]

Homework Equations


There aren't any premises, so we're supposed to show that the conclusion is logically consistent.

The Attempt at a Solution


Beside the fact that I'm quite new to formal logic and don't really know how to start with this (having tried multiple things), there's something more important that's bothering me: I don't think this conclusion IS logically consistent.

You see, the logical OR is an inclusive-OR, which means that in the above case, you can have BOTH [itex]\neg P[/itex] and [itex]P[/itex]. But that makes no sense. Is that correct, or am I missing something? Can you still give a 'formal proof' for any such thing?
 
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  • #2
KiwiKid said:
First of all, I wasn't quite sure in which (sub)forum to post this, so if it doesn't quite fit, feel free to move it. I'm having a very hard time solving this one (or even seeing if it's logically consistent), and any help would be very much appreciated.

I know there is a forum for logic and stuff, but not as a subset of homework help, so I'm not sure..

Homework Statement


Give a formal proof for the following conclusion:
[itex](\neg P \wedge \neg\neg\neg P) \vee P[/itex]

Homework Equations


There aren't any premises, so we're supposed to show that the conclusion is logically consistent.

The Attempt at a Solution


Beside the fact that I'm quite new to formal logic and don't really know how to start with this (having tried multiple things), there's something more important that's bothering me: I don't think this conclusion IS logically consistent.

You see, the logical OR is an inclusive-OR, which means that in the above case, you can have BOTH [itex]\neg P[/itex] and [itex]P[/itex]. But that makes no sense. Is that correct, or am I missing something? Can you still give a 'formal proof' for any such thing?

Well, I'm not sure about formal proof since you're only given P but...

[itex](\neg P \wedge \neg\neg\neg P) \vee P[/itex]

since there's a triple negation in the second P you can take two of them out, and you get...

[itex](\neg P \wedge \neg P) \vee P[/itex]

So that can be reduced...
 
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FAQ: A Question about Logical Consistency in Formal Logic

What is formal logic?

Formal logic is a branch of mathematics and philosophy that deals with reasoning and argumentation in a precise and systematic manner. It involves the use of symbols and rules to analyze and evaluate the validity of arguments.

How is formal logic different from informal logic?

Formal logic is distinguished from informal logic by its use of a formal language and specific rules of inference, while informal logic relies on natural language and common sense reasoning. Formal logic is also more concerned with the structure of arguments rather than their content.

What are the different types of formal logic?

There are several types of formal logic, including propositional logic, predicate logic, modal logic, and many others. Each type has its own set of symbols, rules, and applications.

What are the benefits of studying formal logic?

Studying formal logic can improve critical thinking skills and the ability to construct and evaluate arguments. It can also be useful in fields such as mathematics, computer science, and philosophy.

Can formal logic be applied in everyday life?

While formal logic may seem abstract, its principles can be applied in everyday life to improve reasoning and decision making. For example, using logical principles can help in evaluating the validity of arguments in debates or making sound decisions based on evidence and reasoning.

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