STANDARD COMPETENCIES:

 

 1.   Analyze and identify the elements and structure of argument.

 2.   Distinguish and describe the claims and forms of inductive and deductive reasoning/argument.

 3.   Apply the principles of logic to the examination and decision-making.

 4.   Examine factors that influence and distort reasoning and decision-making.

 5.   Apply the resources of logic to a practical problem-solving situation.

 6.   Read, analyze and apply written material to new situations.

 7.   Write and speak clearly and logically in presentations and essays.

 8.   Demonstrate the ability to select and apply contemporary forms of technology to solve problems or compile information.

 TOPICAL OUTLINE:

 

 I.      Logic and Language

         A.      Rational Decision-making

         B.      Proposition and Arguments

         C.      Classification and Definition

 II.     Probability and Induction

         A.      Generalization

         B.      Causal Reasoning

         C.      Scientific Method

         D.      Mill's Method

         E.      Statistics and Probability

 III.    Deduction

         A.      Aristotelian Logic

         B.      Categorical Syllogisms

         C.      Alternative and Disjunctive Syllogisms

         D.      Truth Tables

 IV.     Fallacies

         A.      Psychological Fallacies

         B.      Material Fallacies

 V.      Effective Thinking

         A.      Creative Thinking

         B.      Critical Thinking

         C.      The Art of Persuasion