Contradiction
A contradiction is a pair or combination of claims that cannot both be true in the same sense at the same time. It is a basic concept in logic and clear reasoning.
At a Glance
Contradiction refers to the conjunction of mutually exclusive claims such that both cannot be true in the same sense at the same time.
Key Points
- Category: logic and argument analysis.
- Useful in apologetics and doctrinal reasoning for testing arguments.
- A valid form alone does not guarantee true premises or sound conclusions.
Description
A contradiction exists when two statements are asserted in a way that makes it impossible for both to be true at the same time and in the same respect. This is a basic logical category used in philosophy, debate, and ordinary reasoning to identify incoherence, expose faulty argumentation, and sharpen definitions. Christians have good reason to value logical clarity because God is truthful and Scripture does not teach actual contradictions, even where some passages may require careful interpretation to understand their harmony. At the same time, the mere absence of contradiction does not prove a belief is true, since false systems can still be internally consistent; logic serves truth, but it does not replace revelation, exegesis, or moral honesty.
Theological Significance
Theologically, the term matters because Christians are called to reason truthfully about God, Scripture, and the world. Bad arguments can obscure sound doctrine, while careful reasoning can help expose confusion and defend what is true.
Philosophical Explanation
In logic and argument analysis, Contradiction concerns the conjunction of mutually exclusive claims such that both cannot be true in the same sense at the same time. It matters wherever claims must be tested for validity, coherence, explanatory strength, and resistance to fallacy.
Interpretive Cautions
Do not confuse formal neatness with actual truth. A valid pattern cannot rescue false premises, and identifying a fallacy in one argument does not automatically settle the underlying question.
Practical Significance
In practice, this term helps readers test claims, identify weak reasoning, and argue more carefully in teaching, counseling, and apologetics.
Related Entries
- Metaphysics
- theism
- naturalism
- Substance dualism
- Telology
Study-aid notice
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