Emch's calculus and strict implication

Abstract

In a previous number of this Journal, Dr. Arnold F. Emch argues that the mathematical properties of the system of strict implication preclude the interpretation of p⊰q as synonymous with “q is deducible from p” and of ◊(pq), or p o q, as “p and q are consistent.” He proposes a new calculus of propositions in which the primitive ideas of the system of strict implication are retained but an additional idea, “logical consistency,” Op, is introduced, and two new relations, “logical implication,” p∾q, and “logical equivalence,” p = q, are denned. He believes that the properties of this new system are in accord with the facts about deducibility, consistency, and independence of propositions where those of p⊰q and ◊(pq) fail of such accord.Not all of the objections which Dr. Emch advances against strict implication are given due consideration in what follows. Concerning one especially important point, something will be said at the end of this paper. For the rest, discussion will here be limited to certain formal properties of the two systems, and certain consequences for the interpretation of them.For brevity, the system of strict implication will be referred to, in what follows, as the “system S,” or merely as S; and Dr. Emch's calculus as the “system L,” or as L.