Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Spring 2022 - PHIL 310 D100

Logic, Proofs and Set Theory (3)

Class Number: 7378

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Jan 10 – Apr 11, 2022: Tue, 2:30–5:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Exam Times + Location:

    Apr 13, 2022
    Wed, 12:00–3:00 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Prerequisites:

    One of PHIL 110, 210, 314, 315, or MACM 101; or a minimum of 12 units in MATH.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

An advanced introduction to the logical techniques and concepts required for the construction of proofs, including the fundamental principles of set theory and concepts such as set, relation, function, sequence, orderings and others. Quantitative.

COURSE DETAILS:

Students in many disciplines must develop skills in understanding and constructing proofs using mathematical techniques that are based in formal logic. This course teaches the fundamental tools and strategies needed to become effective at writing, reading, and assessing mathematical proofs. The main topics for the course will be first-order logic and axiomatic set theory. In the last few weeks of the course, we will examine applications to the foundations of mathematics, computer science, linguistics, and philosophy, based on student preferences. This course is perfectly suited for students with a formal background who seek to improve their ability to make proofs, be they in mathematics, computer science, linguistics, philosophy, or other disciplines containing mathematical content.

The lectures will present the material in a clear and engaging way. Students are expected to attend classes and participate.

COURSE-LEVEL EDUCATIONAL GOALS:

PHIL 310 may be applied towards the Quantitative Requirement.
  
Students taking this course will

  • develop a solid and systematic approach to the formal logic underlying proofs.
  • learn the rigorous standards of proofs in axiomatized theories.
  • understand the fundamental principles of set theory---which provides the basis for most of modern mathematics and formal methods used across disciplines.
  • acquire a precise understanding of fundamental concepts such a set, relation, function, sequence, orderings, etc.
  • improve their skills at reading, interpreting, and reading proofs written in “mathematical English.”
  • develop a capacity to confidently develop and self-assess putative proofs.

Grading

  • 10 homework assignments, worth 5% each 50%
  • Midterm exam 20%
  • Final exam 30%

Materials

RECOMMENDED READING:

The core material about deontic logic per se will be delivered in class during lectures. Furthermore, a set of readings in PDF will be distributed to students.
No textbook required.

Department Undergraduate Notes:

Thinking of a Philosophy Major or Minor? The Concentration in Law and Philosophy? The Certificate in Ethics? The Philosophy and Methodology of Science Certificate?
Contact the PHIL Advisor at philmgr@sfu.ca   More details on our website: SFU Philosophy

New elective grade policy : P/CR/NC, pilot project for 2021 and Spring 2022. List of exclusions for the new policy. Specifically for Philosophy: 

  • Students can use a P or CR to satisfy any requirement for a major, joint major, honours, or minor in Philosophy (with the exception of Honours tutorials).
  • Students can use a P or CR to satisfy any prerequisite requirement for any PHIL course.
  • Students can use a P (but not a CR) to satisfy any requirement for the Ethics Certificate, or the Philosophy and Methodology of Science Certificate.
  • Philosophy Majors and Honours students can use a P (but not a CR) to satisfy any WQB requirement.

Registrar Notes:

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS

SFU’s Academic Integrity web site http://www.sfu.ca/students/academicintegrity.html is filled with information on what is meant by academic dishonesty, where you can find resources to help with your studies and the consequences of cheating.  Check out the site for more information and videos that help explain the issues in plain English.

Each student is responsible for his or her conduct as it affects the University community.  Academic dishonesty, in whatever form, is ultimately destructive of the values of the University. Furthermore, it is unfair and discouraging to the majority of students who pursue their studies honestly. Scholarly integrity is required of all members of the University. http://www.sfu.ca/policies/gazette/student/s10-01.html

TEACHING AT SFU IN SPRING 2022

Teaching at SFU in spring 2022 will involve primarily in-person instruction, with safety plans in place.  Some courses will still be offered through remote methods, and if so, this will be clearly identified in the schedule of classes.  You will also know at enrollment whether remote course components will be “live” (synchronous) or at your own pace (asynchronous).

Enrolling in a course acknowledges that you are able to attend in whatever format is required.  You should not enroll in a course that is in-person if you are not able to return to campus, and should be aware that remote study may entail different modes of learning, interaction with your instructor, and ways of getting feedback on your work than may be the case for in-person classes.

Students with hidden or visible disabilities who may need class or exam accommodations, including in the context of remote learning, are advised to register with the SFU Centre for Accessible Learning (caladmin@sfu.ca or 778-782-3112) as early as possible in order to prepare for the spring 2022 term.