Definition of Logic

Definition of Logic

Objectives

At the end of the session, the student will able to:

• Define Logic in its proper perspective.
• Demonstrate valid thoughts about logic.
• Apply correct thinking and reasoning.

Etymology

• LOGIKE – According to Zeno it denotes a treatise on matters pertaining to thought.

Real meaning of Logic

• Logic is the organon according to Aristotle because it is the universal rational instrument for the acquisition of philosophical knowledge.

• Logic is the science of correct reasoning or inferential thinking.
• Logic could be defined more precisely as the study of the methods and principles used to distinguish good from bad reasoning (argument).
• When we reason about any matter, we produce arguments to support our conclusions. Our arguments include reasons that we think justify our beliefs.
• However not all thinking are inferential or good reasoning, for example:

• Imagining or thinking of names, number, things, etc.
• “drift along” as in daydreaming
• Meditating or reflecting, etc.

• Logic is formal and systematic study of correct thinking or reasoning.

• Formal - refers to how an argument is being formed or organized.  Argument, which is the building block of Logic, is composed of two elements: Matter and Form.

• Form is the structure of an argument.
• Matter is its content.

• Systematic - because Logic is a science. It standardizes knowledge of the principles governing correct thinking.
• Correct Thinking - because argument is the expression of thinking, and thinking can be considered correct depending on how an argument is being formed.

What are the benefits of studying logic?

• Provide with the skill and power of good reasoning.
• Provide tools in the form of laws and methods, which he can apply to have a valid or sound argument.

• Ability to think clearly, systematically and critically.
• Self-confidence when arguing with somebody.
• Capacity to correct wrong arguments and avoid it.
• Being broad-minded, sensible, reasonable, and practical in dealing and establishing relationships with people.
• The person who has studied logic could immediately spot the fallacy in another person’s argument.

What is the importance of Logic?

• Logic is a tool used in every step to ascertain philosophical conclusions. Thus, logic, in its general sense, is applied when we solve mathematical problems, make and conclude experiment, assess our situation, etc.  
• More than that, logic is the most needed when deeper principles are articulated in Philosophy.
• Logic processes and unifies all the systems that man is capable of: knowledge, skills, strength, power, cooperation, values, needs, aspiration, etc.

What are the main problems of Logic?

• The distinction between correct and incorrect reasoning.
• Or to determine precisely the correct reasoning.
• Ergo, logic is concerned with the correctness of the completed process of reasoning.

What are the Material and Formal Object of Logic?

• Material Object – refers to concepts and conceptual structures, namely: terms, proposition, syllogisms, informal fallacies, symbols.
• Formal Object - refers to inferential functions of concept and propositions or logical relations of propositions, namely the rules of eduction and truth tables and validity.

Logic as Science and as Art

Logic as science

• It answers the “know- what” of correct reasoning.
• Logic is a science in the sense that it is a systematic study of the principles of good arguments and avoiding bad one.

Logic as art

• It provides the “know- how” to arrive at correct reasoning, and later makes with it. St. Thomas says that it is the act by which reason may proceed with order, ease and without error.

Division of the Study of Logic: Division of the subject matter in accordance to the acts of the mind.