simplification

<logic, philosophy of science> a rule of inference of the form:

	p . q
	_____
	p

Example: "Jevona is tall and Jevona is thin. Therefore, Jevona is tall". Although trivial in ordinary language, this pattern of reasoning is vital for proof construction in the propositional calculus.

[A Dictionary of Philosophical Terms and Names]

<2002-03-28>

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Nearby terms: simple consistency « simple propositions « simpliciter « simplification » simulated annealing » simulation » sine qua non