What is a Categorical Syllogism & Categorical Syllogism Examples

Categorical Syllogism

What is a categorical syllogism?

A categorical syllogism is a logical argument that has three parts: the major premise, the minor premise, and the conclusion.

It is a form of deductive reasoning in which there are three statements.

• The major premise is a statement of universal truth.
• The minor premise is an example of how this universal truth applies to one particular case.
• The conclusion follows from these two premises.

In all cases, it is supposed to be true and not merely probable or plausible; i.e., it must necessarily follow from the premises as their consequence (the Latin word for “conclusion” – “- means “that which follows”).

It can be written in one of four forms.

Categorical Syllogism Rules

A categorical syllogism is a form of deductive reasoning that has three parts.

• The first part is called the major premise, and it must be true in all cases.
• The second part is called the minor premise, and it may or may not be true depending on the circumstances.
• The third part of a categorical syllogism is called the conclusion; this must also be true if both premises are true but will likely have different consequences based on whether or not both premises are true.

Categorical Syllogism Examples With Answers

Example 1 of categorical syllogism: 

• Major premise: All robins are birds.
• Minor premise: All birds are animals.
• Conclusion”: Therefore, all robins are animals.

Example 2 of categorical syllogism: 

• Major premise: Some bachelors are not astronauts.
• Minor premise: All bachelors are human beings.
• Conclusion”: Therefore, some human beings are not astronauts.

Example 3 of categorical syllogism: 

• Major premise: All chipmunks are Republicans.
• Minor premise: Some Republicans are golfers.
• Conclusion”: Therefore, some chipmunks are golfers.