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existential import
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existential import

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existential import, in syllogistic, the logical implication by a universal proposition (i.e., a proposition of the form “All S is P” or “No S is P”) of the corresponding particular statement (i.e., “Some S is P” or “Some S is not P,” respectively). The validity of some syllogistic figures (see syllogism) depends on whether universal statements are interpreted as having existential import.

This article was most recently revised and updated by Brian Duignan.