Logic & Philosophy of Science

Course Description

Course:

PHIL 115/215, SS 111/210

Name:

ANALYTIC PHILOSOPHY

Description:

This course will focus on the early analytic philosophy, roughly 1910-1950. In particular, we will focus on the movement of Logical Positivism and the philosophy of the Vienna Circle. We will also consider some of the precursors of the movement as well as the influence it had on subsequent analytic philosophy. Readings will include such authors as Frege, Russell, Carnap, Schlick, and Quine.

The first part of the course will be dedicated to the two books by Russell and Ayer, whereas the second part will be more seminar-like. There will be opportunities for students to present material from a course reader.

TEXBOOKS
1. A.J. Ayer, Truth, Language, and Logic, Dover;
2. B. Russell, Introduction to Mathematical Philosophy, Dover.

There will be also a course reader packet.

COURSE REQUIREMENTS
There will be several writing assignments, roughly once a week, in which students will be asked to summarize and explain the significance of the week's readings.

Each assignment contributes equally toward the final grade.