Introduction to Logic

Dr. Robert Sutton	Office: Bear Hall 269
P & R 110	Home Phone: 458-6395
Fall 2007	Office Hrs: 6:00-6:30
E-Mail: robertcsutton@yahoo.com	and by appointment after class
Home Page: http://cfcc.edu/faculty/rsutton/	Mail Box: Bear Hall 269

COURSE DESCRIPTION: An introduction to the basic concepts and principles of logic including the rules of deduction, the categorical syllogism, induction, and fallacies, both formal and informal.

COURSE OBJECTIVES:

• Basic understanding of essential concepts, principles, and methods of logical reasoning.
• Able to detect and avoid fallacious reasoning.
• Capable of formulating and evaluating both deductive and inductive arguments.
• Appreciate the value of critical reasoning and precision in the use of language.
• Continue to develop the habits of thinking and communicating with logical rigor and clarity.

REQUIRED TEXT:

Hurely, Patrick J. A Concise Introduction to Logic. 9th ed. Belmont, CA: Wadsworth Publishing Co., 2006.

REQUIREMENTS: There will be four exams, including the final. Unannounced quizzes that may not be made up may be given in class from time to time.  Each exam will count as 25% of your final grade, unless quizzes are given. If quizzes are given, each will count 10% and would require changing the percentages of the exams accordingly. To encourage attendance I will award 4 points to your final grade now, deduct a point for every class that you are absent.

The class format will be lecture-discussion. The key vocabulary and central ideas of each chapter section will be presented in class with an opportunity for you to discuss and to demonstrate your understanding of course material. This process will only prove fruitful and learning will only occur if all assignments are read prior to the class, all assigned exercises completed, and if all of you are prepared to engage in critical discussion on the relevant issues. You will be asked to present answers to the assigned homework in small groups and each small group will be asked to supply answers to the homework questions. After the first test you will be assigned a group and each group will have the opportunity to earn extra points on the last three remaining tests, based upon the quality of the homework in each group. The function of these groups will be explained fully by the professor. I have the option, if your class performance and/or tests results are not good, of giving a "comprehensive" final examination.

No make exams will be given without prior arrangement.

GRADE SCALE:  A=100-92, B=91-84, C=83-76, D=75-68, F=67.

EXTRA CREDIT: None

STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES: If you have a disability and need reasonable accommodation in this course, you should inform the instructor of this fact in writing within the first week of class or as soon as possible. If you have not already done so, you must register with the Office of Disability Services in Westside Hall (962-3746) and obtain a copy of your
Accommodation Letter. You should then meet with the instructor to make mutually agreeable arrangements based on the recommendations of the Accommodation Letter.

I take academic dishonesty seriously, as I am sure you do. I shall abide by the "Academic Honor Code" as described in the University Bulletin, as so will you.

Go to Student Guide to Philosophy or to Course Guide.