Is there any way to make logic easier?

Question

I'm taking a course at the university... elementary formal logic.

Everything was okay until we started studying rules of inference and constructing proofs.

For some reason, I just can't get it (no pun intended, of course).

Is there any way to make Modus Ponens and Conditional Proofs second nature to me?

I don't even know where to begin.

Answer 1

First of all, I agree - I think it just takes practice. However, I think that since the same principles apply to logic whether its computer related, philosophy related, math related what have you, you might consider looking for ways to take another logical practice that you are familiar with and use it as a basis.

For example - Logic, like math should be deterministic. If you are good at math you are good at simplifying ad breaking down problems. Try using that same simplification principle and apply it to philosophical logic.

If you are good at physics then you understand that any decent theory is falsifiable in principle - not that the theory WILL in fact be proven wrong, but that it is possible to prove it wrong through experimentation. A non- falsifiable theory, is no different than faith - religion requires faith, science, working in empirical facts abhors faith.

Personally, I found understanding philosophical logic easier than logic applied to mathematics. Once we reached trigonometric integrals, I was just lost. The philosophy helped me with the math in the end - just a different kind of problem to be solved and different methods for dissecting the problem. Its all just symbols whether math or philosophy. Plug and chug the input after you solve in both cases.

I'm not meaning to make light of your struggle - believe me I can empathize. It really is just a matter of taking a strength and using it as a tool to help with areas of weakness - look for the hidden similarities rather than focusing on the obvious differences and you will be able to find a tool to help. Re-frame the question with different terms that are more familiar. Use analogy and metaphor.

JT - Good call on the book title "Logic for Dummies" I wouldn't doubt it exists, but that has got to be the most ironic title I've ever heard. I know I could have used that book, but would have hated to walk up to the checkout counter with it. lol

Answer 2

Logic can be made easier. But I don't think there is any royal road to grasping the subject matter. Modus ponens and modus tollens are easy. It is the rest of logic that makes it difficult. One recommendation I might make is that you try using different texts. Sometimes it is helpful to hear a subject explained in more than one way. Of course, my students all tell me that they cannot understand the text I use. What can I say? Philosophy is a tough subject.

Answer 3

I comprehend what you're saying. the reason being possibly money. did you understand how many BILLIONS (that starts with a B, certain) of money it prices to placed an computerized sattelite into orbit? area commute has some distance to bypass. per chance, they arent keen to deliver out a go back and forth to easily search for stuff. we may be able to inspect different image voltaic structures, yet we cant get there yet, and we nonetheless cant discover some thing properly worth travelling. perhaps when we've the technologies to look even added, we can discover some thing and bypass for it.

Answer 4

i completely know what you are talking about!
I have taken a course of logic (advanced logic, with gödel's theorems and that kind of meta theoretic ****) and i have recently failed it for the second time while the exam was exactly the same!!!
Logic is supposed to be boring. The logician thinks it is rational because it is boring, because no (positive) emotions are involved...
Anyway, just study hard and everything will be fine :)

Answer 5

I always knew you were a lot smarter than me ! You telling me I have to make my snotty inferences according to someones rules? HA! thats not gonna happen!

Answer 6

You may just have to devote more time to it until you feel more comfortable. Do they even sell "Logic for Dummies"?