Symbolic logic isn't really what I had in mind. I was thinking a traditional logic course, covering inductive and deductive reasonings, components of an argument (premeses, conclusions, and so forth), common logical fallacies, and the like -- basically the ability to distinguish between valid reasoning and nonsense. Though, symbolic logic also would not go amiss. | [reply] |
I think the subject used to be called "Rhetoric", and it was once taught in college (sometimes even earlier). I agree that some effort should be made to teach people how to reason in a disciplined manner. Without that, much education is merely stuffing people full of facts that they may retain for a lifetime, but which they can't make much use of.
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basically the ability to distinguish between valid reasoning and nonsense
You'd think they'd teach that in grade 1. I weep for the future of mankind.
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