This book begins with a brief survey of ancient geometrical analysis and an investigation of Aristotle's uses of the Greek term, analuein. Byrne argues that 'to loose up' or solve-rather than to reduce or break up--is the principal meaning which best characterizes Aristotle's Analytics. Extending this line of reasoning, he argues that for Aristotle scientific analysis commonly begins with knowledge of a 'mere fact' (a conclusion) and seeks a rigorous demonstration which expresses knowledge of the 'reasoned fact.' Moreover, genuine analysis of a fact into a reasoned fact cannot be accomplished unless the premises of demonstrations are themselves reasoned facts.

Patrick H. Byrne is Associate Professor of Philosophy at Boston College.