Which of the following statements are correct in the context of distribution…
2024
Which of the following statements are correct in the context of distribution of terms?
A. An A-proposition distributes its predicate term.
B. An E-proposition distributes both its subject and predicate terms.
C. An I-proposition distributes only its subject term.
D. An O-proposition distributes only its predicate term.
E. An A-proposition distributes both its subject and predicate terms.
Choose the correct answer from the options given below.
Answer: A. B and D only — ConceptIn a standard categorical proposition, a term is distributed when the proposition refers to every member of the class denoted by that term. The…
- A.
B and D only
- B.
A and B only
- C.
C and E only
- D.
D and E only
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: A
Concept
In a standard categorical proposition, a term is distributed when the proposition refers to every member of the class denoted by that term.
The distribution pattern is fixed: A distributes only the subject; E distributes both terms; I distributes neither term; and O distributes only the predicate.
Proposition | Subject distributed? | Predicate distributed? |
|---|---|---|
A | Yes | No |
E | Yes | Yes |
I | No | No |
O | No | Yes |
Application
Statement A reverses the A-pattern: an A-proposition distributes the subject, not the predicate.
Statement B follows the E-pattern: an E-proposition distributes both subject and predicate.
Statement C conflicts with the I-pattern: an I-proposition distributes neither term.
Statement D follows the O-pattern: an O-proposition distributes only the predicate.
Statement E adds predicate distribution to an A-proposition, although A distributes only its subject.
Cross-check
Using the mnemonic A-S, E-B, I-N, O-P (subject, both, neither, predicate), only statements B and D remain.
Therefore, the correct combination is B and D only.