Philosophy

Logic and Meaning

Module code: V7081
Level 4
15 credits in spring semester
Teaching method: Class, Lecture, Workshop
Assessment modes: Test

In this module you will be introduced to the basic ideas and methods of (modern) elementary formal logic. The emphasis will be on using logic as a tool to evaluate arguments. You will be introduced to logical concepts such as truth-functionality, logical form, subject/predicate, validity, and derivability. We will also consider related issues concerning meaning, such as the meaning of ordinary-language conditionals; the distinction between literal meaning and conversational implicatures, and the distinction between referring expressions and quantifiers.

Module learning outcomes

• Characterise and distinguish key logical concepts.
• Be able to use truth tables.
• Show familiarity with several argument forms.
• Show familiarity and understanding of some important basic notions for the philosophy of language.