James F. Miller Professor of Humanities & Professor of Philosophy, Department of Philosophy, Lewis & Clark College

Paradox of Fiction and Scary Movies

Added on by jay odenbaugh.

Consider the following three claims:

  1. When one watches Paranormal Activity one doesn’t believe they are in danger.
  2. If one is afraid, they believe they are in danger.
  3. When one watches Paranormal Activity they are afraid.

Notice that (1), (2), and (3) cannot all be true. Which one would you reject to avoid the paradox of fiction and why?