The two logics and their relation

pp. 1-25

in: Nathan Rotenstreich, Experience and its systematization, Berlin, Springer, 1972

Abstract

Before going into a detailed analysis of Kant's distinction between Formal Logic and Transcendental Logic, let us recall the definitions of these two spheres given in the Critique of Pure Reason: (a) Formal or General Logic contains the strictly necessary rules of thinking, regardless of differences in its objects;¹(b) Transcendental Logic is concerned with the origins of our a priori knowledge of objects and is the science of the pure knowledge through which we think of objects.² These two definitions present the difference between the two spheres in terms of their relationship to objects, insofar as we can abstract from objects or in turn are concerned precisely with the knowledge of objects.