Course Content and Outcomes Guides (CCOG)

CCOG for PHL 221 archive revision 201501

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Effective Term:
Winter 2015 through Fall 2016

Course Number:
PHL 221
Course Title:
Symbolic Logic
Credit Hours:
4
Lecture Hours:
40
Lecture/Lab Hours:
0
Lab Hours:
0

Course Description

Utilizes the constructs and techniques of symbolic logic to illustrate the basis for assessing validity in arguments. Audit available.

Intended Outcomes for the course

Students completing this course should be able to:

  • Recognize and use formal methods (e.g.Propositional Calculus and Predicate Calculus) in order to analyze the presence of logical reasoning in social arguments.
  • Utilize formal methods for assessing the consistency of statements as a basis for determining the logical validity of arguments.
  • Reflect on and discuss the scope and limits of a logical analysis in order to understand how such concepts apply to the utilization of language, metaphysics, and ethics in social discourse.
  • Use formal methods of logic to construct sound arguments in order to effectively communicate strong arguments to others.

Integrative Learning

Students completing an associate degree at Portland Community College will be able to reflect on one’s work or competencies to make connections between course content and lived experience.

Outcome Assessment Strategies

Assessment strategies will include some of the following:

  •  Graded homework assignments
  • Short-answer exams
  • Student presentations
  • Class and small group discussions
  • Essays or term papers
  • Attendance

Course Content (Themes, Concepts, Issues and Skills)

Course Content

Themes, Concepts, Issues

The course will focus on some or all of the following topics:

  • Propositional Calculus
  • Predicate Calculus
  • Truth Tables
  • The evaluation of arguments expressed in Predicate Calculus
  • The scope and limits of a formal approach to the analysis of reasoning

Competencies and Skills:

Students will learn to:

  • Translate English statements into the language of Propositional and Predicate Calculus
  •  Use Truth Tables to assess the consistency of Propositional Calculus statements and the validity of arguments expressed in Propositional Calculus
  •  Use one of the standard tests (e. g., Natural Deduction or Truth-Trees) to assess the validity of arguments expressed in Predicate Calculus
  •  Demonstrate knowledge of the scope and limits of formalized and mechanical approaches to the analysis of reasoning