(See the definition of Free will in Wikipedia, for instance).Ī definition should not be negative where it can be positive. Terms are difficult to define without obscurity. However, sometimes scientific and philosophical The violation of this rule is known by the Latin Obscure or difficult, by the use of terms that are commonly understood and The purpose of a definition is to explain the meaning of a term which may be not include any things to which the defined term would not truly apply). not miss anything out), and to no other objects (i.e. It must be applicable to everything to which the defined term applies (i.e. The definition must not be too wide or too narrow.Using the term 'consequent', nor conversely. Clearly, we cannot define 'antecedent' without Note, however, that it is acceptable to define two relative terms in This error is known as circulus in definiendo.
To define a horse as 'a member of the species equus' wouldįor this reason, Locke adds that a definition of a term must notĬonsist of terms which are synonymous with it. Thus 'triangle' is defined as 'a plane figure' (genus)īounded by three straight sides (differentia).Ĭertain rules have traditionally been given for thisĪ definition must set out the essential attributes of the thing defined. (the distinguishing feature which marks it off from other Of things to which the defined thing belongs, Here is an explanation of how definitions Definition and Tessellation Definition and Tessellation
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