FOUNDATION

Propositional Logic

The study of propositions and their logical relationships through connectives: conjunction (AND), disjunction (OR), negation (NOT), and implication (IF-THEN).

P → Q, P ⊢ Q
RULE

Modus Ponens

If P implies Q, and P is true, then Q must be true. The fundamental rule of detachment.

P → Q, P ⊢ Q
RULE

Modus Tollens

If P implies Q, and Q is false, then P must be false. The contrapositive argument.

P → Q, ¬Q ⊢ ¬P
PRINCIPLE

Law of Non-Contradiction

A proposition cannot be both true and false at the same time and in the same respect. The bedrock of classical logic upon which all valid reasoning depends.

¬(P ∧ ¬P)
CONCEPT

Tautology

A proposition that is true under every possible interpretation. A logical truth independent of content.

P ∨ ¬P
CONCEPT

Contradiction

A proposition that is false under every possible interpretation. The negation of a tautology.

P ∧ ¬P
QUANTIFIER

Universal

For all x in a domain, a property holds. The assertion of generality.

∀x P(x)
QUANTIFIER

Existential

There exists at least one x in a domain for which a property holds.

∃x P(x)