Introduction to logic

Logic, in its broad sense, can be seen on the one hand as a set of unifying languages for the systematization of scientific knowledge, on the other as a set of tools for any practical application in which there is a need to process information in order to fully deploy its implicit content. The general aim of this course is to provide students with an overview of a variety of logical methods useful for both theoretical and practical applications. By attending this course, students will learn how to design formal languages to be used in a variety of logical tools and apply these tools in theoretical and practical problem-solving. The approach is at the same time abstract and practically oriented, so as to make the course potentially useful for science as well as philosophy students.

Students are expected to acquire a full understanding of the formal notions underlying the application of logical methods in problem-solving and acquire a basic knowledge of the following broad topics
- Foundations of Computing
- Classical logic and its applications
- Non-classical logics and their applications
Students are also expected to develop an ability to apply this basic knowledge to solve simple problems and to engage in further research within more advanced projects in specific applications of their interest.
Notions and methods will be introduced in a problematic way so as to stimulate a critical, rather than passive, attitude towards knowledge. We also expect that training students in the use of formal languages and logical tools will improve their capability of communicating ideas, both at a theoretical and practical level, with the required precision and a sufficient amount or rigour.