Inference and the Conditions of Its Correctness

Abstract

Statements are used to utter propositions, which may be experienced (i.e., convictions) or only thought about. For instance, by uttering the statement “I have two hands” I utter my conviction, since I believe in what that statement says. But by uttering the statement “The number of the hairs on my head is even” I utter a proposition which is only thought about, as I understand that statement, but I lack belief in what that statement says (I also lack belief that it is otherwise.) If a person in a statement utters his belief, then we say that he accepts that statement.