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    Overview

    Logical structure of arguments. Tests for validity.

    Learn how to test the logical structure of arguments for validity and prove truths with deductive certainty. The main topics covered are: how to translate arguments into propositional and predicate logic and test for validity by looking for counterexamples. Philosophical issues about the limitations of logic are emphasised.

    About this paper

    Paper title Introduction to Formal Logic
    Subject Philosophy
    EFTS 0.15
    Points 18 points
    Teaching period Semester 1 (On campus)
    Domestic Tuition Fees ( NZD ) $981.75
    International Tuition Fees Tuition Fees for international students are elsewhere on this website.
    Prerequisite
    One PHIL paper or 18 MATH points or 72 points
    Restriction
    PHIL 212, PHIL 322
    Schedule C
    Arts and Music
    Notes
    The prerequisite will be waived for students with a background in NCEA Level 3 Mathematics (or equivalent).
    Eligibility

    This paper is recommended for students who have taken PHIL105 Critical Thinking.

    Contact

    Associate Professor Zach Weber

    Teaching staff

    Course co-ordinator: Associate Professor Zach Weber

    Teaching staff to be confirmed.

    Paper Structure

    Two 1-hour lectures per week and one tutorial.

    Textbooks

    Required: Nicholas J Smith, Logic: the Laws of Truth (Princeton UP).

    Graduate Attributes Emphasised
    Lifelong learning, Scholarship, Communication, Critical thinking, Research, Self-motivation.
    View more information about Otago's graduate attributes.
    Learning Outcomes

    Students who successfully complete this paper will have:

    1. The ability to formalise and assess arguments for validity
    2. A grasp of how to use formal models to understand data
    3. A demonstrated ability to explain and assess philosophical issues about logic in their own words and to think critically and independently about them
    4. The ability to solve logical problems

    Students who enjoy PHIL 222 will be well-prepared for PHIL 312 Advanced Logic, which uses the same methods to study non-classical logics.

    Timetable

    Semester 1

    Location
    Dunedin
    Teaching method
    This paper is taught On Campus
    Learning management system
    Blackboard

    Lecture

    Stream Days Times Weeks
    Attend
    A1 Monday 11:00-11:50 9-13, 15-22
    Tuesday 11:00-11:50 9-13, 15-22
    Thursday 10:00-10:50 9-13, 15-16, 18-22
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