Logic: The Science of Correct Reasoning
Definition, Nature, Types, and It's Importance in Philosophy.
by: Ulysses Ybiernas | Sep 11, 2018
Among the many branches of philosophy, Logic occupies a central role. Often called the “science of correct reasoning,” it equips the human mind with the tools to distinguish sound arguments from fallacious ones. Since the time of Aristotle, who is considered the “Father of Logic,” this discipline has been studied not only as an abstract theory but also as a practical guide to reasoning in daily life, science, and philosophy.
Definition of Logic
The term logic comes from the Greek word logos, meaning “reason,” “word,” or “principle.”
In philosophy, Logic is the systematic study of the principles and methods of valid reasoning and argumentation. It seeks to establish the criteria by which we can evaluate whether a given inference or conclusion follows from its premises.
Simply put, logic answers the question: What makes reasoning valid, and what makes it fallacious?
Nature of Logic
Logic is both a science and an art:
As a science, it lays down the principles and laws of correct reasoning.
As an art, it guides us in applying these principles in actual discussions, problem-solving, and decision-making.
The nature of logic can also be described in the following ways:
Normative - It provides rules and standards for thinking correctly.
Instrumental - It serves as a tool for philosophy, science, and everyday reasoning.
Practical - It applies to real-life situations, debates, and critical thinking.
Foundational - Other sciences depend on logic, since clear reasoning is essential in every discipline.
Classifications of Logic
Over the centuries, philosophers have classified logic into different types or branches:
Formal Logic - Concerned with the form or structure of reasoning. Example: Syllogisms (e.g., All men are mortal. Socrates is a man. Therefore, Socrates is mortal.)
Material Logic - Focuses on the content or truth of the propositions used in reasoning. It examines whether the premises are factually correct.
Deductive Logic - Moves from general principles to specific conclusions. Example: From a universal law to a particular case.
Inductive Logic - Moves from particular observations to general conclusions. Example: Observing that the sun rises every day, then concluding that it will rise tomorrow.
Symbolic or Mathematical Logic - Uses symbols and formal systems to express logical arguments. Widely used in computer science, mathematics, and modern philosophy.
Basic Elements of Logic
To understand logic, one must first grasp its essential elements:
Concepts/Terms - The basic building blocks of thought (e.g., “man,” “tree,” “justice”).
Propositions - Statements that affirm or deny something (e.g., “All men are mortal”).
Arguments - A set of propositions where some (premises) support another (conclusion).
Importance of Logic
Logic is essential because it:
• Sharpens critical thinking.
• Protects us from fallacies and false reasoning.
• Improves communication and debate.
• Strengthens philosophical, scientific, and mathematical inquiry.
• Guides us in making rational decisions in everyday life.
Sample Exercises in Logic
To apply the principles of logic, here are a few simple exercises:
1. Identifying Valid Arguments
Determine whether the following argument is valid:
Premise 1: All mammals are warm-blooded.
Premise 2: A whale is a mammal.
Conclusion: Therefore, a whale is warm-blooded.
(This is a valid deductive argument.)
2. Detecting Fallacies
What fallacy is committed here?
“If we don’t buy this product right now, our lives will never be complete.”
(Fallacy of false dilemma / appeal to emotion.)
3. Inductive Reasoning
Observation: The past 100 swans I have seen are white.
Conclusion: All swans are white.
(An example of induction, but not necessarily true, since black swans exist.)
Conclusion
Logic, as a branch of philosophy, is both timeless and practical. It trains the mind to reason correctly, evaluate arguments critically, and avoid errors in judgment. Whether through the classical syllogisms of Aristotle or the modern applications of symbolic logic in computing, its principles continue to shape human knowledge and progress. To study logic is to refine not only the way we think but also the way we live and engage with the world.
"Logic is the anatomy of thought." - John Locke