Difference between revisions of "Paradox"
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A '''paradox''' is a situation or [[puzzle]] where choosing an alternative contradicts itself, or contradicts what is obviously true through what appears to be valid assumptions and logic. | A '''paradox''' is a situation or [[puzzle]] where choosing an alternative contradicts itself, or contradicts what is obviously true through what appears to be valid assumptions and logic. | ||
| − | The ancient [[Greek]] Zeno is known for his invention of many paradoxes, the best known of which "proves" that a moving object can never reach its destination. | + | The ancient [[Greek]] Zeno is known for his invention of many paradoxes, the [[Zeno's_paradox|best known]] of which "proves" that a moving object can never reach its destination. |
A well known family of paradoxes involve [[self-reference]], such as the statement "this statement is untrue", or the old joke "How do you keep a fool busy? Hand him a card which on each side reads 'see other side'" | A well known family of paradoxes involve [[self-reference]], such as the statement "this statement is untrue", or the old joke "How do you keep a fool busy? Hand him a card which on each side reads 'see other side'" | ||
Revision as of 22:02, January 11, 2008
A paradox is a situation or puzzle where choosing an alternative contradicts itself, or contradicts what is obviously true through what appears to be valid assumptions and logic.
The ancient Greek Zeno is known for his invention of many paradoxes, the best known of which "proves" that a moving object can never reach its destination.
A well known family of paradoxes involve self-reference, such as the statement "this statement is untrue", or the old joke "How do you keep a fool busy? Hand him a card which on each side reads 'see other side'"