Part 1: The Nature of Logic

LOGIC DEFINED

Etymology: Greek Λογικε Logike (treatise), Λογοσ

Logos (word)

Working Definition: the philosophical science of

correct reasoning.

Also known as:

- inferential thinking
- the science of demonstration (to engender
certainty)
- the organon, the universal rational
instrument for the acquisition of
philosophical knowledge.
- Main instrument to push philosophical
frontiers, because it equips the mind with
knowledgeability for making correct
inferences people make regarding abstract
issues.

Material Object: concepts and its structures

(propositions, syllogisms as mental products)
Formal Object: inferential functions of concepts
and propositions relations/reasons (they exist in
the mind)

Subject Matter: covers both the words and the

relationships between them.

TYPES/DIVISIONS:

A. Formal and Material

«Formal – discusses the conceptual patterns
or structures needed for correct and valid
inference
«Material – dwells with the material/s
needed to perform demonstration; pertain to
terms and premises

B. Formal and Dialectics

«Formal – focuses on though, treatise in
matters pertaining to thought (Ideas and
Propositions)
«Dialectics – treatise on argumentation and
disputation (Inference and Syllogism)
C. Deductive and Inductive
«Deductive – inferential/thinking process
that begins with the universal down to the
particular
«Inductive – thinking that begins with the
particular to the universal.

D. Classical and Symbolic

1. Classical – formal logic, (Aristotelico-
Thomistic)
2. Symbolic – axiomatic (Modern to Anglo-
American)