Dictionary

A modern dictionary of Catholic terms, both common and obscure. Find accurate definitions of words and phrases.

Or browse the dictionary by selecting a letter!
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

SYLLOGISM

In philosophy, an argument so arranged that if the first two statements (premise) are accepted the third (conclusion) necessarily follows. In theology, when the first statement is a revealed truth, and the second is a fact or truth knowable by reason, the third is said to be a theological conclusion. Such conclusions are frequently the object of the Church's infallible teaching authority. (Etym. Greek syllogismos, a reckoning together.)

All items in this dictionary are from Fr. John Hardon's Modern Catholic Dictionary, © Eternal Life. Used with permission.

Click here to advertise on CatholicCulture.org