Module description
The module is a first introduction to logic, the study of valid inference. Students learn how to detect valid and invalid arguments via the tools provided by propositional and predicate logic. They will understand how to formalize informal patterns of reasoning given in ordinary language and how to test the validity of arguments deductively, via proofs, or semantically, via the construction of models.
Assessment details
When this module is taught in the Autumn term (Semester 1), there will be alternative assessment for Study Abroad students at King's for Semester 1 only.
For SEMESTER 1 ONLY Study Abroad students: 1 x 2,000 word essay (100%) in January
For WHOLE YEAR Study Abroad students: 1 x 2-hour exam (100%) in January
Formative assessment: 8 logic exercises
Educational aims & objectives
The module aims to introduce the students to the core notion of logically valid argument. It provides the basic tools needed for the formal analysis and classification of arguments and sets of assumptions (valid and invalid, tautologies, contradictions, consistent and inconsistent sets of sentences). It also introduces to the importance and relevance of logical tools both within and outside philosophy.
Learning outcomes
- Formalization of arguments formulated in ordinary language and its relevance to philosophy.
- Understanding of the languages of propositional and predicate logic.
- Ability to test the validity and invalidity of arguments in propositional and predicate logic via deductive and semantic methods.
- Informal understanding of the links between deductive and semantical approaches to propositional and predicate logic given by the soundness and completeness theorems.
Teaching pattern
One two-hour lecture and one one-hour seminar per week over ten weeks.