- Source: Epicheireme
An epicheireme ( e-pee-KEYE-reem) is a compound syllogism in which at least one of the premises is stated along with a justification for itself. Epicheirema are abridged polysyllogisms. Like the enthymeme, epicheirema are often used in everyday speech.
Basic form
An epicheireme is a compound syllogism in which at least one of the premises is stated along with a justification for itself. The justificatory portion is referred to as a causal proposition, and is usually introduced by the words "for", "since", or "because". An example of an epicheireme is as follows, with the causal proposition marked in bold italics:
All waiters are beneficent because they cater to the needs of their customers.
Darryl is a waiter.
Therefore, Darryl is beneficent.
Three kinds of epicheirema
Epicheirema are categorized in three varieties, depending on which premise (or premises) contain a causal proposition. In a first order epicheireme, the causal proposition is in the major premise.
First Order Epicheireme
All M are P, since r
S is M
Therefore, S is P
(where r is the justification for the proposition that precedes it)
In a second order epicheireme, the causal proposition is in the minor premise.
Second Order Epicheireme
All M are P
S is M, since r
Therefore, S is P
In a third order epichireme, there are causal propositions in both premises.
Third Order Epicheireme
All M are P, since r1
S is M, since r2
Therefore, S is P
A concrete example of a third order epicheireme is as follows:
All waiters are beneficent because they cater to the needs of their customers.
Darryl is a waiter since Darryl serves tables at Chez Casimir
Therefore, Darryl is beneficent.
