Topics include reasoning and the mind, different purposes for reasoning, different kinds of reasoning, evaluating rational support, and the logical shape of our statements and beliefs. Class format will be mostly lecture. We will work some problems. We will also discuss a variety of topics. This course meets the Humanities distribution requirement, but only one of RELP 1155 or 1166 can meet this requirement.
Attendance is required.
During a lecture, I may elicit some material from you. So you must keep up with the readings, that day's class, and the ongoing course. You will need to be mentally active and prepared. I do not mind if you work on homework with your colleagues. Remember, though, that you will not profit much from the homework if you do not at least think it through for yourself.