Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Fall 2024 - PHIL 110 D100

Introduction to Logic and Reasoning (3)

Class Number: 7070

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Sep 4 – Oct 11, 2024: Tue, 10:30 a.m.–12:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

    Oct 16 – Dec 3, 2024: Tue, 10:30 a.m.–12:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

An introduction to the theory of deductive reasoning. We consider deductive arguments in philosophy, in everyday life, and in mathematical proofs, and discuss what distinguishes valid inferences from fallacies. The course will cover propositional logic and first-order logic. Open to all students. Quantitative.

COURSE DETAILS:

This course introduces students to the logic of good reasoning. We focus on the main elements of deductive logic, which is primarily concerned with correctly deducing a conclusion from given premises, or what is often called “valid inference” or “logical consequence”. We begin with truth-functional logic, where we focus on the logical properties of whole sentences and arguments built with them. We then proceed to develop a proof system—a system of deduction—for this, i.e., a way of deriving logical consequences from given sentences as a starting point. In the second half of the course, we look at elements of first-order logic, which contains quantifiers and variables, and which gives a correspondingly more complex means of expression and system of deduction.

An introductory study of logic provides excellent preparation for intellectual work in many other disciplines. Students from all faculties will benefit from learning various methods of sound reasoning—methods that prize precision, clarity, rigor, practice, and patience.

This course assumes no prior knowledge of logic, and is intended for all students, whether or not they are planning further study in philosophy.

COURSE-LEVEL EDUCATIONAL GOALS:

By the end of the course, students will be able to:
• Assess the quality of an argument using formal methods
• Appreciate the general principles of good reasoning
• Determine the validity of an argument in terms of its logical form
• Symbolize English arguments using logical notation introduced in the course
• Translate sentences expressed in logical notation into English
• Demonstrate an understanding of basic logical concepts (truth-functions, validity, soundness, deduction and quantification)

PHIL 110 may be applied towards the Quantitative Requirement. 
Videos: Why Study Philosophy? and Meet Our Professors!

Grading

  • 3 online homework assignments 35%
  • Midterm exam 15%
  • Final exam (in-person) 40%
  • Attendance and participation in tutorial 10%

Materials

REQUIRED READING:

Forallx: SFU. A free PDF of the textbook will be made available at the beginning of class.

REQUIRED READING NOTES:

Your personalized Course Material list, including digital and physical textbooks, are available through the SFU Bookstore website by simply entering your Computing ID at: shop.sfu.ca/course-materials/my-personalized-course-materials.

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 philcomm@sfu.ca   More details on our website: SFU Philosophy

Registrar Notes:

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS

SFU’s Academic Integrity website 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

RELIGIOUS ACCOMMODATION

Students with a faith background who may need accommodations during the term are encouraged to assess their needs as soon as possible and review the Multifaith religious accommodations website. The page outlines ways they begin working toward an accommodation and ensure solutions can be reached in a timely fashion.