Introductory Logic

Logic is the study of arguments.  One way to evaluate arguments is with the language of first order logic—a ‘formal’ tool that allows us to examine the structure of an argument in a precise way. 

This course will cover the essentials of first-order logic (which includes “propositional” logic and “predicate” logic).  This task is like learning another language, and we will learn its rules of syntax, the meanings of its terms, and how to test the validity of arguments with it.  We will do all this with the aid of software from the book Language, Proof and Logic (see below), which makes learning first-order logic much easier than it may have been in the past. 

Grading

• 70% Problem sets: 8 assignments, highest 7 counted at 10% each
• 10% Midterm quiz: 30 minutes or so in-class in week 5
• 20% Final (cumulative): Sat, Aug 13, 8:30 am

Problem sets will be due each Monday by the beginning of class, except for the last assignment, which will be due on Thursday Aug 11 (it will be short).   Your lowest grade on these assignments will be dropped.  No late problem sets will be accepted.  Collaboration is allowed, though the work you submit or turn in must be your own.    

Textbook and course materials

Language, Proof and Logic, Barwise and Etchemendy (2002). CSLI Publications.

You will need a new copy of this book and access to a computer on which you can install the LPL software that comes with this book.  Be careful with used copies of these books, as we will be using an automated service for the submission and correction of homework, and each book has a unique registration number for this service that is only good for the original user.

Please update your software to the latest version.  Updated software and help are available for download at the LPL user support page.

Website

This syllabus and assignments for the class can be found at http://www.stanford.edu/class/phil50s. 

Schedule

Assignments