The "original existence" argument (Treatise 2.3.3 5)

X is contrary to reason only if (X is a representation and X is not similar to what it represents).

X is a passion only if X is an original existence (or modification thereof).

X is an original existence (or modification thereof) only if X is not a copy.

If X is not a copy, then X is not a representation.

Therefore, if X is a passion, then X is not contrary to reason.

Form:

If I then R and not S.
If P, then O.
If O, then not C.
If not C, then not R
Therefore, If P, then not I.


Richard Lee, rlee@uark.edu, last modified: 8 October 2010