An epicheireme ( ) is a compound syllogism in which at least one of the premises is stated along with a justification for itself. Epicheirema are abridged polysyllogisms. Like the enthymeme, epicheirema are often used in everyday speech.
Basic form An epicheireme is a compound syllogism in which at least one of the premises is stated along with a justification for itself. The justificatory portion is referred to as a causal proposition, and is usually introduced by the words "for", "since", or "because". An example of an epicheireme is as follows, with the causal proposition marked in bold italics: All waiters are beneficent because they cater to the needs of their customers. Darryl is a waiter. Therefore, Darryl is beneficent.
Three kinds of epicheirema Epicheirema are categorized in three varieties, depending on which premise (or premises) contain a causal proposition. In a first order epicheireme, the causal proposition is in the major premise.
First Order Epicheireme All M are P, since r S is M Therefore, S is P (where r is the justification for the proposition that precedes it)
In a second order epicheireme, the causal proposition is in the minor premise.
Second Order Epicheireme All M are P S is M, since r Therefore, S is P
In a third order epicheireme, there are causal propositions in both premises.
Third Order Epicheireme All M are P, since r1 S is M, since r2 Therefore, S is P
A concrete example of a third order epicheireme is as follows: All waiters are beneficent because they cater to the needs of their customers. Darryl is a waiter since Darryl serves tables at Chez Casimir Therefore, Darryl is beneficent.
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