SYMBOLIC LOGIC

Catalog description

A first course in symbolic logic designed to introduce students to formal systems of sentential logic and predicate logic. The course explores the nature of both syntax (the formal structure of elements of language) and semantics (interpretive relations between language and subject matter including notions such as truth and reference). Students learn how to translate between English and formal languages, how to construct truth-tables and interpretations to test for key semantic properties, and how to construct derivations. In addition, students will consider the nature and relationships between important logical properties and explore foundational issues in logical metatheory. Throughout the course, students will encounter broad philosophical themes such as the purpose of language, constraints on translation, and nature of meaning itself. (The study of logic is also excellent preparation for the LSAT and the reasoning portions of other examinations for graduate study.) (Cross-listed with PHIL 2010 ).