Symbolic Logic, PL 350
Spring, 2008
HC 303, TTH 12:30-1:50
Bill Myers
Office: HC 222
Extension: 4868
Email: bmyers@bsc.edu
Course Web Page: http://csunx4.bsc.edu/bmyers/pl350-08.htm
Office Hours: M 12:30-2:00; W 1-4; TTH 10:00-11:00; and by appt.
Course Description:
This course is an introduction to symbolic logic. Time permitting, we will cover sentential and predicate logic, including symbolization, syntax and derivations.
Text:
Bergmann, Moor and Nelson, The Logic Book (4th ed.)
Requirements:
Homework and class work: 20%
Exam one: 25%
Exam two: 25%
Exam three: 30%
Optional Paper:
Any time before the end of the semester, you have the option of doing an 8-10 page paper on some aspect of the history of logic. The paper shouldn’t be a simple narrative history; rather it should engage the issues. We might call it a critical history. In other words, be sure you do some philosophy in there. If the paper earns a better grade than your lowest exam, I will replace that test grade with your paper grade.
Attendance:
I’m certain that we all understand the necessity of coming to class when we do logic. It is advisable that you do so on a regular basis. I will take role, and negative attendance will detract from your final grade. I promise.
Tardy:
Don’t be late for class. It’s rude, and we will make fun of you mercilessly.
Honor Code:
You will, of course, be expected to abide by the Honor Code in regard to all of your assignments. Regarding exams, it is acceptable and even encouraged that you study with one another. Collaborating on homework is also encouraged. However, come exam times, your work must be your own. Blatant violations of the honor code will result in your failing this class.
Tentative Schedule of Classes
Feb 5 Introduction and review basic concepts
Feb 7 2.1 (Homework: * only: 1:a-j ; 2:a-k; 3:a-k; 5: a-n; 7:a-h)
Feb 12 2.2 (Homework, * only: 2.2: 1:a-h; 3: a-h; 5:a-f)
Feb 14 2.4 and 5.1 (Homework: * only: 2.4: 1, 3, 4, 5; 5.1.1, 5.1.2, 5.1.3, 5.1.4, 5.1.5)
Feb 19 5.2-5.3 (Homework: do * for 5.2: 1, 2)
Feb 21 5.4 (Homework: do * for 1,3,5,6,8)
Feb 26 5.5 (Homework: do * for 1,2,3)
Feb 28 Catch up, distribute, and review exam (due on March 4)
Mar 4 7.1-7.2 (Homework: 7.2: 1:a-i)
Mar 6 7.3 – 7.4 (Homework: 7.3 do * for 2 and 3; 7.4 do * for 1,2, and 3)
Mar 11 Hurley: Review section 8.1. Do 8.2 (HW: 8.2, evens)
Mar 13 No class—I’m out of town
Mar 18 Hurley: 8.3 (HW 6,8,9,11,12)
Mar 20 Hurley 8.4 (HW 11,12,14,15, 17)
Mar 25 & 27 Spring break!
April 1 Hurley 8.6 (HW: 8,9,11,12,14)
April 3 7.5 and review 7.6 (Homework: 1-5, b,d,f,h)
April 8 7.8 (Homework: 1-5, f,h,j,l,)
April 10 Distribute and review exam (due on April 15)
April 15 10.1-10.2 (Homework: All * for 10.1.1-10.1.5;)
April 17 10.2-10.3 (Homework: all * for 10.2)
April 22 10.4
April 24 No class—Honors day
April 29 10.4-10.5 (Homework: 10.4: 1-6 * only) (Awards Day, meet 1:00-2:10)
May 1 10.5 (Homework: 1-4 * only)
May 6 continued, catch up.
May 12 Final, 9 to noon.