Detailed Information
In this introductory critical reasoning course we’ll learn how to argue well, and how to show when others are arguing badly. In particular, we’ll learn to spot bad arguments – 'fallacies' – and rhetorical devices that can be used to trick us into accepting things we shouldn’t. We’ll also learn about 'inductively strong' and 'logically valid' arguments, which provide good reasons for accepting their conclusions. We’ll learn how to check whether ordinary arguments are logically valid by translating them into a simple but powerful logical language. We'll think about some of the ways in which we might reason badlly, even when we don't mean to (for example as a result of 'cognitive biases'). Finally, we'll think about paradoxes, such as that generated by the statement ‘This sentence is not true’. How do we solve them? What if we can’t? And do they show that we need to rethink our approach to logic?
Semester 1
Level 1
Lectures: Tuesdays, 12:00 - 13:00 and Thursdays, 11:00 - 12:00, beginning September 11
Tutorials: To be selected
If you are taking this module for credit, please take note of the dates below:
Term dates for revision: Saturday, 1 December - Sunday, 9 December
Term dates for exams: Monday, 10 December - Friday, 21 December
Open Learning Fee (audit only) €350 per module
Open Learning Fee (with assessment) €500 per 5 credit module
Upgrading from audit to credit: You may upgrade from being an audit student to a credit student up to three weeks into term. Please note, however, that you can't change back to being an audit student - if you decide not to complete the assignments and/or sit the exams, this will appear on your academic record.
Concessions
There are no concessions available for Open Learning modules.
Refunds
Refunds may in some instances be available for extenuating circumstances, such as serious illness, within two weeks of the start of the module. Requests for refunds must be submitted in writing, with supporting documents where appropriate.
Dr Daniel Deasy