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MENTAL MODEL · M8426

Modus Tollens

Modus Tollens
StructureHigh supportLogic
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Version 1.0.0 · Updated 2026-07-30

CORE DEFINITION

Major premise: If P, then Q. Minor premise: Not Q (the consequent is false). Conclusion: Not P (the antecedent must be false).

SCAFFOLDING EFFECT

psychology

Reduce cognitive load

Refute hypotheses logically through counterexamples. Core logic of the scientific method—cannot be verified, but can be falsified. A single counterexample suffices to overthrow a universal proposition. Related variant: denying the antecedent

anchor

Anchor fast decisions

Modus tollens is a valid argument form that infers the falsity of the antecedent from the falsity of the consequent.

MINIMUM ACTION

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Source support: Explicit

  • link
    en.wikipedia.orghttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Modus_tollensZH · Explicit
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