PHIL 130 — Logic
This course teaches "correct thinking" by looking at the various conclusions or "inferences" we make about things based on the information we're given. These inferences are either deductive or inductive. Deductive inferences are the kinds of conclusions we make that follow with strict necessity, much like the answers we get in math. For example, if there were two oranges and two apples on the table, we could "deduce" there are four pieces of fruit on the table with 100% certainty. Inductive inferences, on the other hand, are the kinds of conclusions we arrive at with varying degrees of probability. They're less certain, but usually more interesting and problematic than deductive inferences. For example, an inductive inference would be seeing dark clouds in the sky and concluding it will soon rain. It's not 100% certain, but more or less likely. Being able to understand the nature of these inferences, the rules behind them, and the many mistakes we make in arriving at them is crucial for evaluating the arguments of others and for developing arguments of our own. This course will explore the methods used to determine how to make good arguments as well as the ways to avoid making bad ones. (CSU/UC) (AA/AS-2)