Here is the English version of one of my blog pieces.
If Yao Ming is a dwarf, then I am Darth Vader. If Imelda is humble, then I am handsomest man in the world. From a contradiction, one can imply anything.
Here is a Mathematical Logic proof. If it is too much of a hassle to go into, skip it.
1. P ∧ ~P
Presume this is true.
2. P
If 1 is true, then 2 has to be true. Rule used: Simplification.
3. P v Q,
Where Q is any statement whatsoever
If 2 is true, then 3 has to be true. Rule used: Logical Addition.
4. ~P ∧ P
If 3 is true, then 4 has to be true. Rule used: Commutation.
5. ~P
If 4 is true, then 5 has to be true. Rule used: Simplification
6. Q
If 3 and 5 are both true, then 6 has to be true. Rule used: Disjunctive Syllogism.
From Proceedings of the Cambridge Philosophical Society 9 (1917-1920). Credit to Jean Nicod.
In other words, from a contradiction P ∧ ~P, one can imply “any statement whatsoever” Q.
From a confused mental model full of contradictions, one can imply any statement whatsoever. If this is correct, we can claim the following.
From a confused mental model, one can imply the rules of heroism; not a surprise that those with confused mental model can behave every once in a while heroically.
Also, from a confused mental model, one can imply the rules of hooliganism; not a surprise that those with confused mental model can be hooligans once in a while.
When those who have confused mental models become hooligans and at the same time believe they are doing heroic deeds, we have a problem.
When it happens that those who have confused mental models become hooligans and at the same time believe they are doing heroic deeds are themselves considered by the public as mysterious, “enigmatic” says the public, we have a much bigger problem.
Known that one is behaving heroically on a number of occasions. Yet can be seen, now is himself a hooligan. The justification is that he only appears to be a hooligan. What is true is that he is indeed a hero. Proven on a number of occasions. He may be simply acting out the role of a hooligan in a bid to be funny. This occasion may even be part of his brilliant strategies. Bottomline, he is truly a hero.
We already know. Those who tend to believe in corrupt officials, often, are themselves victims of con artists and pyramiding scammers, often believers in conspiracy theories, similarly weak in understanding rational arguments. Already discussed here in this blog.
Despots and tyrants, on many occasions, appear enigmatic. Root is lack of understanding of valid forms of reasoning.
Topics involving valid forms of reasoning should be integrated into school programs. Should be included as regular subject matter. Unfortunately, even with the University of the Philippines System (UP System), there is lack of attention to this. Only UP Diliman campus requires mathematical logic as a regular subject within the UP System, for example. Not required by other campuses — same, possibly worst, with other universities.
Our education system should adapt to this need accordingly. Less chances of becoming victims of despots and tyrants over and over again.
For those who want to fight despots and tyrants, start working on your arguments making them valid. Better if you start with readings in Mathematical Logic. Small sacrifice to pay if you think about it. No one needs to kill or be killed.