Summary of Sentential Logic/Propositional Logic Adapted from Craig and Moreland1 Rule 1

modus ponens PQ P Q Associated fallacy: Rule 2 modus tollens PQ Q P Associated Fallacy: Since the logic of argument states that P (the antecedent) implies Q (the consequent), we need to deny Q. If we were to deny the antecedent (P), we create a fallacy (Denying the Antecedent). Negative Premises: If a modus tollens argument includes a negative premise, then the argument contains a double negation. We see this in the Moral Argument, which states, P If God does not exist, Q then objective moral values do not exist. Q (P) Objective moral values do exist. God exists.

Since the logic of the argument states that P (the antecedent) implies Q (the consequent), we need to afrm P. If we afrm the consequent (Q), we create a fallacy (Afrming the Consequent).

The double negation (P) is logically an afrmation of P. N.B.: Only if creates a necessary condition (Q).

James Porter Moreland and William Lane Craig. Philosophical Foundations for a Christian Worldview. Downers Grove, Ill.: InterVarsity Press, 2003. pp. 2967
1

Rule 3 Hypothetical Syllogism PQ QR PR N.B.: Rules can be combined. For example, PQ QR P PR R The argument begins with a Hypothetical Syllogism (Rule 3). Based upon the sufciency of P for Q , we can demonstrate that R is a necessary condition to Q and P. Thus, we afrm P (modus ponens see rule 1), and conclude R. The above example employs both a Hypothetical Syllogism and a modus ponens to demonstrate R. We can do likewise with modus tollens. PQ QR R PR P

Rule 4 Conjunction P and Q P&Q The & symbol stands for any grammatical coordination or subordination. For example, the following sentence would still be take the symbol & for its logical form: Jack wrote the letter, even though (&) he did not have his glasses. We let P symbolize Jack wrote the letter, and even though is symbolized by &, and let Q symbolize he did not have his glasses. N.B.: You do not have to use P/Q. For memory purposes, it is best to let the symbol stand for the essential element of the proposition. Thus, in our case, we could symbolize the above with L & G.

Rule 5 Simplication P & Q P&Q P Q The main usefulness of this rule is that if you have the premise P & Q and you need either P by itself of Q by itself to draw a conclusion, simplication can give it to you (p. 36). P&Q PR P R

Rule 6 Absorption PQ P (P & Q) This is tautology. In other words, P implies itself but is restated with Q. Craig and Moreland note, The main use for absorption will be in cases where you need to have P & Q in order to take a further step in the argument (p.36). PQ (P & Q) R P (P & Q) PR

Rule 7 Addition This rule of inference introduces the symbol (or), which indications a disjunction. The rule states, if P is true, then P Q is also true (p. 37). One of the propositions (P or Q) only need to be true for a valid inference. N.B.: Addition is another rule that can be used enhance your argument. For example, P (P Q) R PQ R

Rule 8 Disjunctive Syllogism The rule states if one proposition is true, then its disjunct is false. This rule is an inference from the rule of excluded middle, which states that if a proposition is true, its antithesis is false. In other words P is mutually exclusive from P. If both propositions in a disjunctive syllogism are either true or false, then a third option exists, in which case the propositions are not mutually exclusive. P Q P Q PQ Q P

Rule 9 Constructive Dilemma (P Q) & (R S) PR QS