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Module Specifications..

Current Academic Year 2023 - 2024

Please note that this information is subject to change.

Module Title Reason Argument Analysis Intro to Logic
Module Code TP155
School 59
Module Co-ordinatorSemester 1: Ian Leask
Semester 2: Ian Leask
Autumn: Ian Leask
Module TeachersIan Leask
NFQ level 8 Credit Rating 5
Pre-requisite None
Co-requisite None
Compatibles None
Incompatibles None
Coursework Only
Description

This module aims to equip students with the tools and skills needed to spot good reasoning and avoid common argumentative mistakes, to critically evaluate philosophical and non-philosophical texts, and to make claims in a more rigorous and precise way. Students will learn to identify fallacies, evaluate ambiguous sentences, and understand the nature of valid arguments, consistent beliefs, and contradictions. The module will also explore the concepts of deduction, induction, and inference, before focussing on the concept of truth (self-evident, necessary, and contingent). Students will also consider the distinction between analytic and synthetic statements, and between a priori and a posteriori knowledge. To understand what is both philosophically and practically at stake in these discussions, the module will critically engage with important historical texts by Leibniz, Hume, and Kant.

Learning Outcomes

1. comprehend the core concepts of critical reasoning, logic, and theories of truth;
2. construct arguments in ordinary language and basic formal language
3. collect, synthesise, and communicate information relating to logical and critical thinking
4. apply knowledge of logic and critical reasoning to the evaluation and analysis of arguments
5. communicate philosophical analyses clearly and competently and develop the skills of critical thinking needed for research in philosophy and academic study in general



Workload Full-time hours per semester
Type Hours Description
Lecture24No Description
Independent Study101No Description
Total Workload: 125

All module information is indicative and subject to change. For further information,students are advised to refer to the University's Marks and Standards and Programme Specific Regulations at: http://www.dcu.ie/registry/examinations/index.shtml

Indicative Content and Learning Activities

Logic Explained
syllogism; various fallacies; historical issues in logic

Assessment Breakdown
Continuous Assessment100% Examination Weight0%
Course Work Breakdown
TypeDescription% of totalAssessment Date
Assignmentn/a100%n/a
Reassessment Requirement Type
Resit arrangements are explained by the following categories;
1 = A resit is available for all components of the module
2 = No resit is available for 100% continuous assessment module
3 = No resit is available for the continuous assessment component
This module is category 1
Indicative Reading List

  • A.J.Ayer: 1946, Language, Truth and Logic, London,
  • Tracey Bowell & Gary Kemp: 2010, Critical Thinking: A Concise Guide, 3rd Ed, London,
  • Graham Priest: 2000, Logic: A Very Short Introduction, Oxford,
  • E.Lepore: 2000, Meaning and Argument, Oxford,
Other Resources

None
Programme or List of Programmes
BAJHBachelor of Arts (BAJH)
HMSAStudy Abroad (Humanities & Soc Science)
HMSAOStudy Abroad (Humanities & Soc Science)
IESAStudy Abroad (Institute of Education)
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