161-104 Logic and Rationality

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Subject Description:

The syllabus is divided into two roughly equal parts. In Part A students are introduced to some ancient and modern techniques for distinguishing good reasoning from bad, and will be expected after tuition and practice to be able to apply those techniques effectively to examples provided. In Part B there will be an introduction to a number of problems concerning rationality, with particular reference to (i) the justification of induction, by which we expect the future to resemble the past in certain significant ways, and (ii) the relationship between rationality and religious belief. Students completing Part B should be familiar with various important and celebrated views and arguments, and have acquired some ability to use philosophical skills and understanding in discussing the issues involved. Both parts of the subject should help to develop students' ability to engage effectively with more challenging material, with other philosophy subjects, and with studies in other disciplines.

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Teaching material will be available in booklet form from the Philosophy Department.