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PHIL 155: General Interest Topics in Mathematical Logic (PHIL 255)

Introduction to formalization using language of logic and to problems of philosophical logic and computer science that can be handled this way. Propositional calculus, Sudoku puzzles, resolution rule, problem P=NP. Possible worlds, modal logic with emphasis on individuation problems. May be repeated for credit.

| Repeatable for credit

PHIL 157: Topics in Philosophy of Logic (PHIL 257)

(Graduate students register for 257.) Disputed foundational issues in logic; the question of what the subject matter and boundaries of logic are, such as whether what is called second-order logic should be counted as logic. What is the proper notion of logical consequence? May be repeated for credit. Pre- or corequisite: 151, or consent of instructor.

Last offered: Winter 2006 | Repeatable for credit

PHIL 158: Topics in Logic: Ten Problems in Deontic Logic (PHIL 258)

As witnessed by the handbook of deontic logic and normative systems, the area of deontic logic is in flux. Traditional questions and logical methods of deontic logic are being supplemented by new questions and new techniques. This tutorial gives an introduction to the current discussion in deontic logic. In what sense are obligations different from norms? Jorgensen's dilemma, from preference based modal logic to the modern approach. How to reason about dilemmas, contrary-to-duty and defeasible norms? Distinguishing various kinds of defeasibility. How to relate various kinds of permissive and constitutive norms? Permissions as exceptions and prioritized norms. How do norms relate to other modalities like beliefs, desires, and intentions How do norms change? What is the role of time, action and games in deontic reasoning? For each problem, we discuss traditional as well as new research questions. We see the new questions as good questions for current research, in the sense that they point to modern theories and applications. We are especially interested in new questions that make older traditional questions obsolete in the sense that they are now addressed from a modern perspective, or in a more general setting. This mini-course wil from the week of 15 April through the week of 13 May.

Last offered: Spring 2013

PHIL 159: Non-Classical Logic (PHIL 259)

This course surveys a range of non-classical logics. Each week, we discuss the formal rules and philosophical underpinnings of a different system. Key topics include modal logic (the logic of possibility and necessity), many-valued logics (in which propositions can be both true and false, or neither), relevant logics (which aim to bring the concept of valid inference into line with everyday ideas about relevance), and logical pluralism (the view that there is more than one correct logic).

Terms: Win | Units: 4

Instructors: Briggs, R. (PI)

PHIL 160A: Newtonian Revolution (PHIL 260A)

(Graduate students register for 260A.) 17th-century efforts in science including by Kepler, Galileo, Descartes, and Huygens, that formed the background for and posed the problems addressed in Newton¿s Principia.

| UG Reqs: GER:DB-Hum

PHIL 160B: Newtonian Revolution (PHIL 260B)

(Graduate students register for 260B.) Newton¿s Principia in its historical context, emphasizing how it produced a revolution in the conduct of empirical research and in standards of evidence in science.

| UG Reqs: GER:DB-Hum

PHIL 162: Philosophy of Mathematics (MATH 162, PHIL 262)

(Graduate students register for PHIL 262.) General survey of the philosophy of mathematics, focusing on epistemological issues. Includes survey of some basic concepts (proof, axiom, definition, number, set); mind-bending theorems about the limits of our current mathematical knowledge, such as Gödel's Incompleteness Theorems, and the independence of the continuum hypothesis from the current axioms of set theory; major philosophical accounts of mathematics: Logicism, Intuitionism, Hilbert's program, Quine's empiricism, Field's program, Structuralism; concluding with a discussion of Eugene Wigner's `The Unreasonable Effectiveness of Mathematics in the Natural Sciences'. Students won't be expected to prove theorems or complete mathematical exercises. However, includes some material of a technical nature. Prerequisite: PHIL150 or consent of instructor.

Last offered: Autumn 2015 | UG Reqs: GER:DB-Math

PHIL 163: Significant Figures in Philosophy of Science (PHIL 263)

(Graduate students register for 263.) Directed study of two or more thinkers, past or present, who have made a lasting impact on contemporary philosophy of science. Subjects last year were Henri Poincaré, Pierre Duhem, and Gaston Bachelard.

Last offered: Winter 2007 | UG Reqs: GER:DB-Hum

PHIL 164: Central Topics in the Philosophy of Science: Theory and Evidence (PHIL 264)

(Graduate students register for 264.) Is reductionism opposed to emergence? Are they compatible? If so, how or in what sense? We consider methodological, epistemological, logical and metaphysical dimensions of contemporary discussions of reductionism and emergence in physics, in the ¿sciences of complexity¿, and in philosophy of mind.

Last offered: Spring 2016 | UG Reqs: GER:DB-Hum, WAY-A-II | Repeatable for credit

PHIL 164A: Central Topics in Philosophy of Science: Causation (PHIL 264A)

(Graduate Students register for 264A.) Establishing causes in science, engineering, and medicine versus establishing them in Anglo-American law, considered in the context of Hume and Mill on causation. May be repeated for credit.