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What is a paradox?

PhilosophyLesson on requestFree to read

Quick answer

A paradox is a statement or situation that seems to contradict itself or defy logic, yet may reveal a deeper truth. Some paradoxes are puzzles with hidden flaws; others expose real limits in our reasoning or assumptions. It's a self-contradictory or logic-defying statement or situation.

Key things to understand

  1. It's a self-contradictory or logic-defying statement or situation.
  2. Example: 'This sentence is false' — true and false at once.
  3. Some dissolve once a hidden mistake is found.
  4. Others reveal genuine gaps in logic or intuition.
  5. They've driven progress in math, physics, and philosophy.

People also ask

What is an example of a paradox?
'This statement is false' — if it's true, then it's false, and if false, then true, with no consistent answer.
Are all paradoxes unsolvable?
No — many have hidden errors and resolve on closer inspection; only some point to deep, genuine limits of logic.
Why do paradoxes matter?
They expose flawed assumptions and have pushed breakthroughs in mathematics, physics, and philosophy by forcing clearer thinking.