Syllogism – Two universals in a chain: Statements: (a) All animals are dogs. (b) All dogs are birds. Conclusions: I) All animals are birds. II) All birds are animals.

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: Only Conclusion I follows

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
A simple transitive chain of universals yields one necessary inclusion; the converse does not hold.



Given Data / Assumptions:

  • Animals ⊆ Dogs ⊆ Birds.


Concept / Approach:
Transitivity produces Animals ⊆ Birds (I). The reverse “All birds are animals” adds information not provided and is not necessary.



Step-by-Step Solution:
From Animals ⊆ Dogs and Dogs ⊆ Birds, deduce Animals ⊆ Birds.



Verification / Alternative check:
Countermodel for II: Let Birds include animals and non-animals (e.g., mechanical birds); universals (a) and (b) can still hold while II fails.



Why Other Options Are Wrong:
They either include the invalid converse or deny the valid transitive inclusion.



Common Pitfalls:
Assuming symmetry of subset relations without basis.



Final Answer:
Only Conclusion I follows.

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