Spring,
Fall
4
Reasoning and argument are pervasive features of human life. For instance, people are constantly trying to persuade you to adopt certain positions or beliefs; they will often attempt to do so by means of argument or reasoning. But what makes for good reasoning? This course is intended to introduce students to principles and methods of good reasoning, with an emphasis on the analysis of everyday arguments. Students will develop the ability to uncover the logical structure of ordinary language; to recognize, represent, and assess everyday statements and arguments; to work competently within formal logical systems; and to construct clear and cogent arguments of their own. Offered yearly.