An Introduction to Formal Logic - Hardcover

Smith, Peter

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 0521810337 ISBN 13: 9780521810333

Publisher: Cambridge University Press, 2003

Synopsis

Formal logic provides us with a powerful set of techniques for criticizing some arguments and showing others to be valid. These techniques are relevant to all of us with an interest in being skilful and accurate reasoners. In this highly accessible book, Peter Smith presents a guide to the fundamental aims and basic elements of formal logic. He introduces the reader to the languages of propositional and predicate logic, and then develops formal systems for evaluating arguments translated into these languages, concentrating on the easily comprehensible 'tree' method. His discussion is richly illustrated with worked examples and exercises. A distinctive feature is that, alongside the formal work, there is illuminating philosophical commentary. This book will make an ideal text for a first logic course, and will provide a firm basis for further work in formal and philosophical logic.

About this title

About the Author

Peter Smith's publications include The Philosophy of Mind (1986) and Explaining Chaos (1998).

Edition details

• Publisher: Cambridge University Press
• Publication date: 2003
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 0521810337
• ISBN 13: 9780521810333
• Binding: Hardcover
• Number of pages: 366