Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Spring 2022 - PHIL 110 D100

Introduction to Logic and Reasoning (3)

Class Number: 7286

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Jan 10 – Apr 11, 2022: Mon, Wed, 11:30 a.m.–12:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Exam Times + Location:

    Apr 24, 2022
    Sun, 3:30–6:30 p.m.
    Burnaby

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

The aim of this course is to familiarize students with fundamental techniques of correct reasoning. Special attention is given to the methods of logic in particular, and to their role in the discovery of truth not only within science and philosophy but within all forms of rational enquiry. Open to all students. Quantitative.

COURSE DETAILS:

This course is intended to introduce students to the art and science of logical reasoning, i.e., to the crucial but elementary methods needed to construct and assess logically valid arguments. The study of basic 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. Students in this course should expect to develop an enhanced ability to engage in disciplined argument and to write in an organized and focused way.

This course assumes no prior knowledge of logic, and is intended for all students, whether they are planning further study in philosophy or not. We will introduce formal symbolic logic, focusing on argument structure, propositional logic and elementary quantificational logic. Applications to certain fields (such as philosophy, linguistics, computer science, mathematics, etc.) will be considered, if students manifest interest in those topics.

COURSE-LEVEL EDUCATIONAL GOALS:

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

General Educational Goals:  
- Demonstrate an ability to assess the quality of an argument using formal methods
- Appreciate the general principles of good reasoning  
Specific Educational Goals:  
- 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, (such as/including) truth-functions, validity, soundness, deduction and quantification

 

Grading

  • Six online homework assignments 15%
  • Tutorial participation (grades will be determined by TAs for attendance and involvement in tutorials) 5%
  • Midterm #1 25%
  • Midterm #2 25%
  • Final exam 30%

Materials

REQUIRED READING:

Richard T.W. Arthur (2017). An Introduction to Logic: Using Natural Deduction, Real Arguments, a Little History and Some Humour. 2nd Edition. Broadview Press. 456 pages. ISBN-13: 978-1554813322. 

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.