G.E. Moore

Flashcards covering key philosophical concepts discussed in the lecture on G.E. Moore's arguments and logical principles.

What is Moore's 'Two-Hands Argument'?

Moore's argument to prove the existence of physical objects independently of perception. By holding up two hands, he asserts 'Here is one hand' and 'Here is another,' concluding that physical objects exist.

What does it mean for an entity to be 'met with in space'?

Refers to entities located in the external world whose existence does not depend on being perceived by a mind. These are extra-mental entities, existing outside consciousness.

In logic, what is 'entailment'?

A logical relationship between two statements, P and Q, where if P is true, then Q must also be true. Q is a necessary logical consequence of P.

What defines a 'valid' argument in logic?

An argument is 'valid' if its structure guarantees that if all its premises were true, its conclusion must also be true. Validity concerns the argument's form, not the actual truth of its premises.

When is a logical argument considered 'sound'?

An argument is 'sound' if it is both (1) valid and (2) all of its premises are actually true. A sound argument guarantees a true conclusion.

Describe the logical form of 'Modus Ponens'.

Modus Ponens is a valid argument form: 'If $P$, then . Therefore: 'If it rains, the ground gets wet. It is raining. Therefore, the ground gets wet.'

Describe the logical form of 'Modus Tollens'.

Modus Tollens is a valid argument form: 'If $P$, then $Q$. Not $Q$. Therefore, not $P$.' Example: 'If it rains, the ground gets wet. The ground is not wet. Therefore, it did not rain.'

Explain the essence of 'Descartes' Dream Argument'.

Descartes' Dream Argument posits that there are no certain marks to distinguish waking life from dreaming. This leads to skepticism about the existence and reliability of the external world, as our perceptions might be part of a dream.

How does Moore use 'Common Sense' in his philosophical arguments?

G.E. Moore appealed to 'Common Sense' as universally accepted, intuitively true propositions (e.g., existence of an external world). He used these beliefs as premises to refute skeptical arguments, considering them more certain.

What is the primary aim of a 'Skeptical Argument' in philosophy?

A 'Skeptical Argument' aims to cast doubt on the possibility of certain knowledge, particularly regarding the external world, other minds, or moral truths. It highlights gaps between sensory experience and objective reality.

What is the philosophical problem of the 'external world'?

This problem questions whether objects and events exist independently of our minds and perceptions, and if so