A Defense of Conversion

The development of modern formal logichas introduced new methods of distinguishing the form of propositions from their content. This has disclosed some instances of syntax - semantics confusion in traditional logic. Some modern logicians hold that the rule of conversion is based on such confusion. Since this rule is basic in traditional logic, revision of its validity implies far-reaching logical consequences. Having closely examined the case, we see that some presuppositions, interpretations and rules in traditional logic different from those of modern logic emerge as the reason why a real difference exists between these two logical systems accounting for the validity of even conversion in the former. Neglecting these differences has led to the said criticism.