PHIL 1110

This course helps students identify and evaluate various types of arguments couched in ordinary language. Different types of errors of reasoning are critically evaluated, such as argument from authority, begging the question, faulty causal correlation, appeal to emotions, inadequate sample, and deceptive use of statistics. The course aids the student in recognizing occurrences of these fallacies, and the conditions for logical error and weak argumentation in general. Emphasis is placed on the identification of weak arguments and the construction of strong arguments. Examples for critique and counter argument are derived mainly from the popular media. Lectures, discussion and group presentation. Three hours a week