foundational proposition

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "foundational proposition" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a fundamental idea or principle that serves as the basis for a theory or argument. Example: "The foundational proposition of our research is that all human behavior is influenced by social context."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

Rather, a Pyrrhonian employing this mode would be attempting to reassure herself (and perhaps persuade the Epistemist) that any so-called foundational proposition stands in need of further support.

SEP

Strictly speaking, there seem to be two other possibilities: 1) there are foundational propositions and there is an infinite number of propositions between the foundational proposition and the one for which reasons are initially being sought; (2) the number of propositions in the circle is infinite.

SEP

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

Either the process of producing reasons stops at a number of purported foundational propositions or it doesn't.

SEP

He thought that a person can be justified in believing many foundational propositions about his own current mental state.

SEP

One of the key foundational propositions of this logic is the customer as "always being a co-creator of value" where "the brand becomes the experience" [Prahalad, C.K., The co-creation of value. J Mark 2004; 68 (1): 23.].

Journal of Business Research

Taking such a faith-proposition to be true, then, is not something that comes in degrees: either one 'buys into' the overall worldview a (foundational) faith-proposition proposes, or one does not.

SEP

If we can be aware of similar relations, at the foundational level, between some propositions and facts with which we are acquainted, this might significantly extend the sorts of foundational beliefs satisfying strong internalist requirements.

SEP

According to Descartes, the investigator in foundational philosophical research ought to doubt all propositions that can be doubted.

SEP

Fourth, those who accept acquaintance with logical or probability relations between propositions can give a unified treatment of foundational and nonfoundational knowledge a unified treatment of knowledge by acquaintance and knowledge by description and are not as vulnerable to the threat of skepticism.

SEP

A science thus becomes an autonomous, ordered system of propositions, independent of the human mind; the goal of foundational research is to discover and to reproduce this objective order.

SEP

Set theory has come to play the role of a foundational theory in modern mathematics, in the sense that it interprets propositions about mathematical objects (for example, numbers and functions) from all the traditional areas of mathematics (such as algebra, analysis and topology) in a single theory, and provides a standard set of axioms to prove or disprove them.

Wikipedia

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In academic writing, explicitly stating the "foundational proposition" early on can provide readers with a clear understanding of the argument's basis, enhancing comprehension and credibility.

Common error

Avoid using "foundational proposition" to describe statements that are already widely accepted or self-evident within the field of discussion. This can make your writing seem redundant and lacking in depth.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "foundational proposition" primarily functions as a noun phrase that identifies a basic principle or premise on which an argument or theory is built. Ludwig confirms that it is correct and usable in English, fitting within formal contexts such as philosophy and academia.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

Science

60%

News & Media

20%

Formal & Business

20%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "foundational proposition" is a grammatically correct phrase used to denote a basic principle or premise upon which an argument or theory is constructed. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's most appropriate in formal, academic, or scientific contexts. While not frequently used, its purpose is to establish a clear starting point for reasoning. When employing this phrase, clarity is key; ensure the "foundational proposition" directly and explicitly supports subsequent points to avoid redundancy or ambiguity. Related phrases include "basic premise" and "core principle". Use such alternatives in order to provide the right nuance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

basic premise

This alternative focuses on the idea of a starting point for an argument or theory, simplifying the concept of "foundational proposition".

core principle

This alternative highlights the central and essential nature of the proposition, emphasizing its importance to the overall structure.

essential principle

This emphasizes the indispensable aspect of the proposition. It suggests something vital and necessary.

underlying assumption

This term emphasizes the tacit and often unacknowledged nature of the proposition that serves as a foundation.

basic tenet

Tenet is a core belief. This captures the fundamental belief aspect of a "foundational proposition".

fundamental assertion

This option underscores the declarative and confident nature of the basic proposition.

primary axiom

This term emphasizes the self-evident or universally accepted quality of the foundational proposition, particularly in mathematical or logical contexts.

initial postulate

This is useful in scientific contexts. This choice stresses the tentative or provisional nature of the starting proposition.

root proposition

Similar to "foundational", this alternative highlights the idea that the proposition is at the very base or root of something.

groundwork proposition

This alternative highlights the notion of groundwork. It's a bit more descriptive but less conventional.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "foundational proposition" in a sentence?

To use "foundational proposition" effectively, introduce it as a core concept upon which your argument or theory is based. Follow it with an explanation of how subsequent points build upon this base, ensuring clarity for the reader.

What phrases can I use instead of "foundational proposition" to express a similar idea?

Alternatives to "foundational proposition" include "basic premise", "core principle", or "underlying assumption" depending on the specific context and nuance you wish to convey.

In what context is it most appropriate to use the term "foundational proposition"?

"Foundational proposition" is particularly suitable in academic, philosophical, or theoretical contexts where establishing a base for reasoning or argument is crucial. It signals a rigorous and structured approach to the topic.

How does a "foundational proposition" differ from a simple assumption or belief?

While assumptions and beliefs can be personal or informal, a "foundational proposition" is a carefully considered and explicitly stated principle that serves as a basis for further reasoning. It's a deliberate choice that underpins a logical structure.