The Brain Gym: An Introduction to Logic

Description

This course provides a hands-on introduction to the core ideas of logical reasoning. Learn how to reason deductively and learn how to PROVE your conclusions. It's challenging, it's great exercise for your brain, and it's a valuable life skill.

You are going to learn propositional logic, quantifier logic, natural deduction, and what are called 'resolution trees'. In the final part of the course you will also look at some or all of: modal logic, the logic of time, epistemic logic, the logic of ethics, and logic for artificially intelligent drones.

As a reality check, here are the names of some great logicians: Sherlock Holmes; Kurt Gödel, who proved that truth is different from proof and that mathematics is forever incomplete; Alan Turing, who invented the universal computer, and broke the Germans' Enigma code; Lotfi Zadeh, who invented fuzzy logic, used to control domestic appliances, trains, and industrial processes; and UC's own foundation professor of philosophy Arthur Prior, who believed that only the present is real and who pioneered the logic of time.

Not only is philosophy one of the most interesting and challenging subjects, it teaches skills that employers want: thinking outside the box, logic, ethics, and excellent writing and communication skills. At UC you can do either a BA or a BSc in Philosophy, or combine a Philosophy major with the LLB, BCom, or another degree.

BA or BSc students who major in philosophy must normally take at least two 100-level PHIL courses, plus at least three 200-level PHIL courses (including PHIL233), plus at least 60-points from 300-level PHIL courses (including at least one course from this list: PHIL305; PHIL310; PHIL311; and PHIL317). For more information see the BA regulations and/or the BSc regulations.