Lesson 8 | Deeper Relationships
Key Distinctions
One helpful way to better understand the 18 logical relationships is to see how they are different one from another. Of course, this can also be of great help in making a specific relationship choice. Consider these distinction highlights.
Alternative vs. Negative-Positive
Alternative is different from Negative-Positive in that with Alternative, there are two options in the author/speaker's mind. Conversely, Negative-Positive acts like two sides of the same coin.
Also, Alternative is a Coordinate relationship (neither proposition is supporting the other) whereas Negative-Positive is Subordinate, the negative proposition supporting the positive.
Hmm... Should I study for the exam this morning or sleep in? (Alternative) Bill does not like black coffee, but really enjoys his cream and sugar. (Negative-Positive)
Action-Manner vs. Idea-Explanation
Action-Manner can be thought of as the Idea-Explanation of verbs. Whereas with Idea-Explanation we find the explanation describing a single noun or an entire concept, Action-Manner tells us more about the action happening.
Bill drove to New Jersey, speeding the entire way. (Action-Manner) Bill drove to New Jersey, going home to where he grew up. (Idea-Explanation)
Idea-Explanation vs. Ground
"For" is a common connecting word which indicates a Ground relationship. However, sometimes we find this word introducing an explanation, not a logical basis.
The easiest way of determining which relationship is more appropriate for a given text is to ask whether the author/speaker is restating what was said before with further explanation (Idea-Explanation) or making a distinct statement which supports what preceded (Ground).
Jesus is glorious, for he shines forth perfection. (Idea-Explanation) Jesus is glorious, for he is just like the Father. (Ground)
Inference vs. Action-Result
Inference focuses more on the logical outcome of a truth or reality. Action-Result is event-oriented and connotes a cause-effect relationship.
Jesus commanded that the sea be still. Therefore we need not be afraid. (Inference) Jesus commanded that the sea be still and it was still. (Action-Result)
Action-Result vs. Action-Purpose
The difference between Action-Result and Action-Purpose lies in the question of intention. Was it a purpose intended by the actor? Or was it a result, not particularly sought by the one doing the action? For this reason, actions with non-personal actors will be Action-Result.
The line between these two can be thin, however, when God is the actor. (Could we not say that God has purpose in every action?) In this case, ask the question of whether purpose is being emphasized.
Bill threw the ball and it broke his grandmother's vase. (Action-Result) Bill threw the ball in order to knock over the cans. (Action-Purpose)