Paradox (Noun)
Meaning
(logic) a statement that contradicts itself; "`I always lie' is a paradox because if it is true it must be false".
Classification
Nouns denoting communicative processes and contents.
Examples
- The Barber Paradox is a classic example of a self-referential paradox that leads to a logical contradiction.
- Zeno's Paradox of Motion argues that an object in motion must first cover half the distance, then half of the remaining distance, and so on ad infinitum.
- A common paradox in time travel stories is the Bootstrap Paradox, where an object is sent back in time with no clear origin or explanation for its existence.
- The Sorites Paradox, also known as the paradox of the heap, raises questions about the nature of identity and how it can change over time.
- The Liar Paradox, which states "this sentence is false," creates a logical contradiction that challenges the principles of classical logic.