Chapter 2. Implication Rules
In this chapter, you will meet two puzzles which show the difference between one- and two-way implication rules. Mastering the difference is a simple, first step, in rule and pattern-based thought. This first step is needed to precisely read rules, definitions and statements in all disciplines, including mathematics. Are you a careful thinker? Can you understand exactly the meaning of a rule or pattern? Instructions for building or creating provide rules and patterns which say and suggest that when this is done, that should happen. Every cook and dressmaker knows the importance of following instructions carefully. Instructions and suggestions which are not repeatable and results which are not reproducible are not of interest to a cook or dressmaker. To read rules carefully, do not imagine too much. To decide or choose among opinions and actions, you must understand the exact meaning of written and spoken words. You need this skill to understand, to follow, to write and to change rules, guidelines, instructions and laws, etc. Use your imagination in language courses. Use your imagination when you are reading novels (and newspaper opinion columns). When reading newspapers or listening to radio and television ask: Is the story presented in a one-sided way? Headlines may suggest conclusions which are not in the stories or the text. Look at the details. Here imagination allows you to guess what the full story might be. But imagination provides only suggestion, not proof. Confidence in suggestions must come after proof is given, not before. Also use your imagination for poorly written rules to guess their meanings. Guesses and speculations give possible meanings. These may or may not be correct. Proof and evidence, or tests, may decide which among various possibilities, if any, are correct.
Chapter sections: Next Section: First Logic Puzzle Next Chapter: 3. Chains of Reason -
Euclidean Model for Reason |
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