Philosophy 110 – CRN 9444
Critical Reasoning: Logic in the
English Language
Fall, 2005
TO:
Students Considering Enrolling in PHL 110:
COURSE
DESCRIPTION:
A course in informal logic and critical thinking designed to teach students to
evaluate logical arguments in daily life and conversation. A large part of the
course will be devoted to the role of induction in sound reasoning, with
particular focus on the role of analogy in legal and moral reasoning, and the
role of probabilistic reasoning in marking off the difference between science
and superstition. Students will also learn how to identify informal fallacies,
evaluate probability and statistical reasoning, and detect causal connections.
EXPECTED COURSE OUTCOMES:
Upon successful completion of this course, the student will be able to:
1. Identify Basic Logic Concepts such as validity, truth, soundness, cogency;
2. Distinguish between deductive and inductive arguments;
3. Understand the varieties of meaning and definition, including the intension
and extension of terms;
4. Identify informal fallacies as they appear in everyday situations;
5. Determine the validity and soundness of syllogistic arguments;
4. Explain the role of analogy in legal and moral reasoning;
5. Apply techniques for discovering causal connections;
6. Apply sound inductive reasoning to detect superstitious claims
Textbook:
Hurley, Patrick, A Concise Introduction to Logic --9th
edition. Wadsworth 2006. Make sure you purchase the one that comes with
a CD and online access code bundled along with the textbook.
COURSE
INFORMATION
The course will be conducted entirely online.
Using a speaker-equipped computer you will log-on to receive course
information, view course content, submit assignments, and interact with the
professor and fellow students via email and a chatroom-type “discussion
boards.” Unless technical difficulties require such changes, no on-campus classes or meetings are
scheduled. However, because of
technical difficulties with some of the material covered at the end of the
students may be required to take some quizzes at home, which must be faxed back
to professor upon completion – and on time.
Professor:
Dr. Alicia Juarrero 301-322-0948
I look forward to having you
in class.
Alicia
Juarrero