Symbolic logic is the application of formal, mathematical methods to reasoning.
Its goal is to design logical languages which provide representations for the ingredients of reasoning, and to determine which forms of reasoning must produce true conclusions when applied to true premises. We will introduce systems of inference rules that allow us to study the nature of proof. We will also introduce the theory of truth and validity. This course will pay particular attention to the art of formalization, and will develop general methods for representing reasoning in common sense domains, such as the detection and diagnosis of faults in devices. There will be regular homework assignments, a midterm examination and a final.