161-115 Introduction to Formal Logic

Formerly available as 161-015. Students who have completed 161-015 are not eligible to enrol in this subject.

This subject is an introduction to the elements of modern formal logic. One of the most important aspects of analysing an argument is the assessment of its validity: whether the premises really do imply the conclusion. Modern formal logic uses symbolic techniques for an analysis of validity, and related notions such as grammatical form and truth. Students of the subject should attain an understanding of the elements of these techniques and their meanings. This is essential for an understanding of many aspects of contemporary philosophy, mathematics, and information processing.

• have learnt to think clearly and precisely;

• be able to detect vagueness and ambiguity;

• be able to articulate implicit assumptions.

Three 1.5-hour quizzes 47% (during the semester), tutorial participation 3%, and a 2-hour written examination (not open-book) 50% (held at the end of semester).