Inquisitive Logic: Consequence and Inference in the Realm of Questions

This book argues that logic should be extended to encompass questions,which leads to important notions such as logical answerhood and dependency. It shows how classical propositional and predicate logic can be made inquisitive and discusses the connections between inquisitive logic and dependence logic.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 272 pages
Publication date: 02 March 2023
Publisher: Springer International Publishing AG

This open-access book makes a compelling case for expanding the scope of logic beyond its traditional confines, encompassing not only statements but also questions. The motivations behind this extension are thoroughly explored, revealing that crucial notions such as logical answerhood and dependency emerge as facets of the fundamental notion of entailment when logic is extended to questions. Consequently, these notions can be treated using the tools commonly employed by logicians, including model-theoretic constructions and proof systems.

After motivating the enterprise, the book delves into the process of making classical propositional and predicate logic inquisitive, or extending it conservatively with questions. It outlines the resulting logics in terms of their meta-theoretic properties and proof systems. Furthermore, the book explores the close connections between inquisitive logic and dependence logic, highlighting their interdependence and mutual enrichment.

By broadening the horizons of logic to include questions, this book offers a fresh perspective on the field, enabling researchers to address a broader range of cognitive phenomena and develop more comprehensive theories of reasoning. It serves as a valuable resource for scholars and students interested in advancing the study of logic and its applications.

Weight: 448g
Dimension: 155 x 235 x 18 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783031097089
Edition number: 1st ed. 2022