Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Spring 2025 - PHIL 314 D100

Topics in Logic (3)

Computability Theory

Class Number: 6354

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Mon, 10:30–11:20 a.m.
    Burnaby

    Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Thu, 10:30 a.m.–12:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Prerequisites:

    One of PHIL 110, 210, 310, 315, or MACM 101, or with the approval of the instructor or department.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

An examination of one or more topics such as: alethic modal logic, applied modal logic, classical metatheory, and non-classical logic. May be repeated for credit.

COURSE DETAILS:

Selected Topics: Computability and Incompleteness

Description: This class starts by laying down the fundamentals of the branch of mathematical logic known as computability theory (aka recursion theory), covering topics such as Turing machines, the Church-Turing thesis, and Gödel-numbering. The goal of the class is to work our way to Gödel’s Incompleteness Theorems with enough logical foundations for students to appreciate the mathematical as well as philosophical significance of these results.

Grading

  • 6 assignments (@ 16.66 each) 100%

Materials

REQUIRED READING:

 No textbook required.

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.