Question: Sloppy Sam is trying to prove a certain proposition P. He defines two related propositions and R, and then proceeds to prove four implications:

Sloppy Sam is trying to prove a certain proposition P. He defines two related propositions and R, and then

Sloppy Sam is trying to prove a certain proposition P. He defines two related propositions and R, and then proceeds to prove four implications: RQ, QR, RP, P Q. He then reasons as follows If Q is true, then since I proved Q R, I can conclude that R is true. Now, since I proved R P, I can conclude that P is true. Similarly, if R is true, then P is true and so Q is true. Likewise, if P is true, then so are Q and R. So any way you look at it, all three of P, Q, and R are true. (a) Exhibit truth tables for and for (PQ) ^ (Q R) ^ (RP), (1) PAQAR. (2) Use these tables to find a truth assignment for P, Q, R so that (1) is T and (2) is F. (b) You show these truth tables to Sloppy Sam and he says "OK, I'm wrong that P, Q and R all have to be true, but I still don't see the mistake in my reasoning. Can you help me understand my mistake?" How would you explain to Sammy where the flaw lies in his reasoning?

Step by Step Solution

3.35 Rating (155 Votes )

There are 3 Steps involved in it

1 Expert Approved Answer
Step: 1 Unlock

Sloppy Sams reasoning is ... View full answer

blur-text-image
Question Has Been Solved by an Expert!

Get step-by-step solutions from verified subject matter experts

Step: 2 Unlock
Step: 3 Unlock

Students Have Also Explored These Related Mathematics Questions!