Contradiction Quote by Gottfried Leibniz
“Our reasonings are grounded upon two great principles, that of contradiction, in virtue of which we judge false that which involves a contradiction, and true that which is opposed or contradictory to the false.”
About This Quote
Source Philosophy: Discourse on Metaphysics, 1686
Reasoning relies on the law of non‑contradiction: contradictions are false, opposites to false are true.
In simple terms: Truth follows from non‑contradiction.
Key Takeaway
Check for contradictions in arguments.
Themes
logic
epistemology
truth
Mood
analytical
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
educational
When to use this quote
- debate
- critical analysis
- academic writing
- legal reasoning
- scientific modeling
Key Concepts
law of non‑contradiction
dialectics
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you handle statements that seem both true and false?
- Can contradictions ever be productive?
A Different Perspective
Complex issues may involve paradoxes that defy simple true/false labeling.
![“The typical white intellectual considers himself superior to ordinary white people for two contradictory reasons: a] he constantly proclaims belief in human equality, but they don't; b] he has a high IQ, but they don't.” quote by Steve Sailer](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/850/steve-sailer-33384_belief_the-typical-white-intellectual-considers_81076.jpg)
