ABSTRACT

This chapter describes class-propositions and singular propositions. A general proposition involves the use of apparent variables. The use of the apparent variable shows that a property, or characteristic, is being considered in abstraction from the individual or individuals to which it may belong. Since general propositions are different in form from simple propositions, it follows that a syllogism in which both premisses are general differs in form from one in which one premiss is general and one simple. This discussion of propositions in whose verbal expression definite or indefinite descriptions occur should enable to see how such propositions can be significantly asserted even though there is no object which is described. The chapter shows that sentences containing definite or indefinite descriptions are logically inappropriate expressions. Mr. Russell puts this point by saying that 'it is of propositional functions that one can assert or deny existence'.