Singular Propositions and their Negations in Diagrams

This paper deals with the visual representation of negation involving particular propositions. The underlying consideration depends on the three basic desirable aspects of visual representation viz. simplicity, visual clarity and expressiveness [9]. For incorporation of constants in diagrams we discuss Venn-i (2004), Swoboda’s diagrams (2005) and Spider diagrams with constants (2005). We also discuss representation of negation in these diagrams. To depict negation in Venn-i the concept of absence is brought in from the conceptual schema of Indian philosophy. The advantage of Venn-i over spider diagram is discussed. The notion of absence naturally calls for the concept of an open universe. A brief discussion on open universe is presented at the end. Keywordssingular propositions, negation, absence, simplicity, open universe