Ateneo - UPO

Introduction to logic and its applications to argumentation theory.

The bibliography is the same for both attending and non-attending students: 

Palladino D. 2021. Corso di Logica. Introduzione Elementare al Calcolo dei Predicati. A cura di M. Frixione. Carocci (nota bene: edition 2021).

At the basic level, the learning objective is to acquire knowledge of the key notions of propositional and first-order logic, while detailing their relevance to argumentation theory.

At an advanced level, the learning objective is to use the technical notions of propositional and first-order logic in the analysis of complex argumentations.

No prior knowledge of logic is required.

Lectures and classroom exercises.

This course is part of "Argumentation and Communication". For notices and updates, please subscribe to the course DIR page.

Written test, lasting 90 minutes, to assess the achievement of the Learning Objectives and the Intended Learning Outcomes. The exam consists of three open-ended questions (maximum 6 points per question) and six exercises (maximum 2 points per exercise). In evaluating the open-ended responses, the scoring will be based 70% on the understanding of the course topics and 30% on clarity of exposition. Full mastery of scientific terminology is essential to achieve top marks (30 e lode).

1. Inferences and reasoning. 2. Simple and complex propositions. 3. Propositional logic: tautologies, equivalence, logical consequence, and valid rules. 4. Semantic trees for propositional logic. 5. Predicate logic: language and rules.

At the basic level, the intended learning outcomes are:
(1. Knowledge and understanding) to gain familiarity with the main notions of propositional and first-order logic;
(2. Applying knowledge and understanding) to formalise simple arguments from ordinary language;
(3. Making judgements) to identify the main logical fallacies;
(4. Communication skills) to describe clearly and concisely how to apply logic to argumentation theory;
(5. Learning skills) to use propositional logic in developing new arguments.

At an advanced level, the intended learning outcomes are:
(1. Knowledge and understanding) to understand the technical details of propositional and first-order logic;
(2. Applying knowledge and understanding) to formalise complex arguments from ordinary language;
(3. Making judgements) to identify several logical fallacies;
(4. Communication skills) to make concrete examples of how to apply first-order logic to argumentation theory;
(5. Learning skills) to use first-order logic in developing new arguments.