Syllogism — Premises: (A) Some cats are dogs. (B) Some dogs are stones. Conclusions: I) No cat is a stone. II) All dogs are stones. III) Some stones are cats. IV) No dog is a cat. Determine which, if any, follow.

Difficulty: Medium

Correct Answer: None follows

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
We have two existential premises involving overlaps among cats, dogs, and stones. We must determine which stronger universal/negative or existential cross-set conclusions are forced.


Given Data / Assumptions:

  • Some Cats are Dogs (Cats ∩ Dogs ≠ ∅).
  • Some Dogs are Stones (Dogs ∩ Stones ≠ ∅).
  • No universal statements are given.


Concept / Approach:
From two separate 'some' statements, we cannot infer universal negatives or complete inclusion. Also, the overlapping dogs in the two premises need not be the same dogs.


Step-by-Step Solution:

I) 'No cat is a stone': This is too strong; it is compatible with the premises that some cat might be a stone or might not—nothing compels this universal negative.II) 'All dogs are stones': From 'some dogs are stones' we cannot generalize to all.III) 'Some stones are cats': This would require a specific triple overlap; premises allow but do not force it.IV) 'No dog is a cat': Contradicted by 'Some cats are dogs' which guarantees at least one dog-cat.


Verification / Alternative check:
Construct a model with three disjoint groups except for minimal overlaps exactly as stated: choose Dog1 ∈ Cats and Dog2 ∈ Stones with Dog1 ≠ Dog2. All premises true, but I, II, III, IV as evaluated above show none necessarily follow.


Why Other Options Are Wrong:
All listed combinations assert at least one of I–III–IV as true, which is not compelled.


Common Pitfalls:
Assuming the 'some' elements are the same individual across premises; overgeneralizing from existence to universals.


Final Answer:
None follows.

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