Comparison of Mohist and Aristotelian logic

[Abstract]

Mozi and Aristotle were philosophers of the same period; despite different cultural and historical circumstances, they both produced logical treatises with a common purpose: "Distinguish true from false, establish the rules governing order and disorder, clarify similarities and differences, find the connection between name and reality, manage gain and loss, and resolve doubts." (Mozi, xiaoqu). Both philosophers created systems of logic to reach this objective, and to different degrees both achieved the formalization of logic. The two systems of logic approach the problem from different angles, and concentrate on different areas. The similarities and differences between the two systems not only arose as the result of historical conditions, but also determined the influence of the two systems on the development of western and Chinese culture. Aristotle used Ancient Greece's advanced scientific theory to create a new science of logic, while Mozi systemized debating to create a tool for both debate and scientific proof.