Question

What is the value of looking at an idea as a four categorical proposition.

Answer 1

What does this mean: "a four categorical proposition"?

What are some examples of ideas to be looked at this way (whatever it is)?

Answer 2

There are four combinations:

A: universal affirmative All A’s are B’s

E: universal negative No A’s are B’s

I: particular affirmative Some A’s are B’s

O: particular negative Some A’s are not B’s

Answer 3

Since you are taking a course called Critical Thinking, I will presume that you are learning how to do this. Basically, critical thinking means that you DO NOT take every statement at face value.

http://www.yourdictionary.com/dictionary-articles/Define-Critical-Thinking.html

Now ... what do YOU THINK "the value of looking at an idea" in these four ways is?

If you'll post what YOU THINK, someone here will be happy to comment.

Answer 4

Thanks so much I have a clearer understanding now.

Answer 5

Oh, good!

That is the best online definition I have found for "critical thinking." Just remembering that whole definition should help you do well in the course you're taking.

=)