Hence it is clear that one thing may be atomically disconnected from
another, and we have stated when and how this is possible.
16
Ignorance-defined not as the negation of knowledge but as a positive
state of mind-is error produced by inference.
(1) Let us first consider propositions asserting a predicate's
immediate connexion with or disconnexion from a subject. Here, it is
true, positive error may befall one in alternative ways; for it may
arise where one directly believes a connexion or disconnexion as
well as where one's belief is acquired by inference. The error,
however, that consists in a direct belief is without complication; but
the error resulting from inference-which here concerns us-takes many
forms. Thus, let A be atomically disconnected from all B: then the
conclusion inferred through a middle term C, that all B is A, will
be a case of error produced by syllogism. Now, two cases are possible.
Either (a) both premisses, or (b) one premiss only, may be false.
(a) If neither A is an attribute of any C nor C of any B, whereas
the contrary was posited in both cases, both premisses will be
false.
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