Contradiction Quote by R.L. Dabney
““A truth is not necessary, because we negatively are not able to conceive the actual existence of the opposite thereof;but a truth is necessary when we positively are able to apprehend that the negation thereof includes an inevitable contradiction. It is not that that we can see how the opposite comes to be true, but it is that the opposite can not possibly be true.””
About This Quote
A proposition is essential only when its denial leads to a logical impossibility; otherwise, its truth is irrelevant.
In simple terms: Truth matters when its opposite is contradictory.
Key Takeaway
Truth is defined by logical necessity.
Themes
logic
epistemology
necessity
contradiction
truth
Mood
analytical
inquisitive
Type
philosophical
analytical
When to use this quote
- philosophical debate
- mathematical proof
- legal reasoning
Key Concepts
logical consistency
negation
conceptual limits
Practical Applications
- evaluating arguments
- defining axioms
Questions to Reflect On
- When does a statement become indispensable?
- Can a false claim ever be necessary?
