Students will learn to identify, analyze, and evaluate arguments in real-world problems using techniques of formal logic. Covered will be inductive and deductive logic, categorical logic, propositional logic, and natural deduction. Techniques of informal logic will not be addressed. See course details in eServices for prerequisite information.
Course Effective Dates: 1/13/14 – Present
Outline of Major Content Areas
Categorical propositions
Categorical syllogisms
Inductive and deductive logic
Natural deduction
Propositional Logic
Learning Outcomes
Evaluate arguments for validity, soundness, strength, and coherence.
Translate ordinary language into categorical propositions and analyze categorical propositions using the square of opposition.
Evaluate categorical syllogisms for validity using Venn diagrams and rules for categorical syllogisms.
Translate ordinary language into statements of propositional logic and analyze propositional statements using truth tables.
Write proofs using rules of inference and replacement.
Minnesota Transfer Curriculum Goal Area(s) and Competencies Goal 04 — Mathematical/Logical Reasoning
Clearly express mathematical/logical ideas in writing.
Explain what constitutes a valid mathematical/logical argument(proof).
