Syllogism

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The classical form of inference (in Hegel, the "syllogism of existence" [<em>Schluss des Daseins</em>]). It consists of three propositions (major premise, minor premise, conclusion) and three terms (I, P, U). Example: "All humans (P) are mortal (U); Socrates (I) is a human (P); Therefore Socrates (I) is mortal (U)." Hegel shows that this is only the first, most external form of inference.

Origin: Aristotle (Organon).

In Hegel: Enc. §183-190; Science of Logic Vol. 2, Subjective Concept, The Syllogism

Cross-references: Syllogism [<em>Schluss</em>]; U-P-S structure

Commentary on the Logic, Chapter 11

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