The Logic Of Definition

The Logic of Definition

The Logic of Definition

The Logic of Definition

From the PREFACE. THE importance of logical Definition, as a philosophical discipline, is acknowledged on all hands. Equally unquestioned is its value both as a means of detecting error and as a branch of logical Method. There is, also, a pretty general agreement as to the need for a detailed exposition of its doctrines, with a pointed reference to practice: indeed, the practical bearings of the subject have been sadly neglected. Guided by these facts, I have endeavoured in the present work - first, to formulate and expound the principles of Definition, and, secondly, to apply them. The spheres of application are mainly these: - The Dictionary, the School-book, Philosophical Vocabulary, Philosophical Questions, and Taxological Biology; in each of which, I have not only dwelt on current dangers and defects, but have, further, suggested modes of improvement, - embodying my suggestions in definite plans sufficiently worked out to show their character and bearings. The wants of the Student of philosophy and of the Teacher have been constantly kept in view, and I have aspired also to being helpful to Dictionary-compilers and to writers of Educational Manuals. This will explain much of the form in which the work is cast, - more especially, the prominence assigned to leading Philosophical terms and to the handling of Separation of Questions....