Aristotle’s model of deduction, also known as syllogism, is a method of logical reasoning that involves making a conclusion based on two premises. A syllogism consists of three parts: the major premise, the minor premise, and the conclusion. The major premise is a general statement that establishes a general rule or principle. For example: “All humans are mortal.” The minor premise is a specific statement that provides an example or instance of the general rule. For example: “Socrates is a human.” The conclusion is the logical outcome of combining the major and minor premises. In this case, the conclusion would be: “Therefore, Socrates is mortal.” Aristotle’s model of deduction is based on the idea that if the major and minor premises are true, then the conclusion must also be true. In other words, the conclusion follows logically from the premises. For example:

Major premise: All mammals are warm-blooded.

Minor premise: Dogs are mammals.

Conclusion: Therefore, dogs are warm-blooded.

In this example, both the major and minor premises are true, so the conclusion must also be true. Aristotle’s model of deduction is a useful tool for making logical arguments and for evaluating the soundness of arguments made by others. It can help to identify faulty logic or flawed reasoning and can be used to support or refute a given argument.

“I am a foreigner.”

“Foreigners can’t get a good job in this country.”

“I will never get a good job here.”

The equation of deduction is simple and logical: A = B, and B = C; therefore, A = C.

Each equals sign is really a presupposition. All you need is one bad presupposition, and this “logic” provides the pessimist with justification for their faulty conclusions.

The challenge is that they were convinced before they performed their “math.” So, even if you try to negate B = C and claim that B = D and not C, (that is, to lead them to a new conclusion), the pessimist will find a way to maintain their limitations. The cure for this deceptive logic is to use abduction to create an imbalance in the formula.

“You are an educated and experienced person.”

“Foreigners in this country are not equal one to another in education and experience.”

As long as you are superior to other foreigners, it gives you a better chance of getting a better job in this country.

A = B, and C = D < B, therefore, (B > C) = A.

If you run this formula thoughtfully and design it to fit the pessimist you’re dealing with, it will get them thinking.

If they come up with another excuse, decide if it’s a valid excuse or just an attempt to get you to think they’re hopeless. If it’s the latter, give them that non-believer doubting look and they may change their tune.

If not, you can run this process from another angle. Friends are there for each other, for better and, most importantly, for worse.

When someone behaves in a destructive way, it is also your responsibility to disrupt their pattern and impel them toward a healthy choice. But, if it restricts your life and limits your possibilities, you’ll have to let them go. Sometimes the fear of losing a good friend drives people to make major positive changes. But use that as a last resort.

Besides, it’s always more fun to take on the challenge of making them so uncomfortable with their current situation that they can’t resist the “Aha!” moment and unbridled motivation that was waiting inside them.