derivations

Tutorial 5: Valid arguments, searching for a proof

Logical System

Tutorial 5. Valid arguments, searching for a proof.

2013

Skills to be acquired in this tutorial:

Proving an argument to be valid by displaying a derivation. Simple propositional derivations using some of the Rules of Inference.

Reading

Bergmann[2004] The Logic Book Section 5.1.

The Tutorial:

If you suspect that an symbolized argument might be valid, you should attempt to give a derivation of it.

A derivation is a proof of validity.

Easy Deriver [Sentential and Predicate Logic—Bergmann Syntax]

Logical System
7/5/12

 

Welcome!

These web pages provide an introduction to logic to the level of Propositional and Predicate Calculus.

The focus of the program is on arguments and the question of whether they are valid. Arguments have the form <list of premises> ∴<conclusion>. An argument is valid if and only if it is not possible for all its premises to be true and its conclusion false at one and the same time; an argument which is not valid is invalid.

Try your own derivations

Logical System

Roll your own derivations

2013

You may have derivations of your own that you wish to try. Just type, paste, or drag and drop, them into the panel, select your derivation, and click 'Start from selection'. [Often copy-and-paste won't work directly from a Web Page; however, usually drag-and-drop will work!]

You will need to use the correct logical symbols. Here they are

F ∴ F ∧ G ∼ ∧ ∨ ⊃ ≡ ∀ ∃ ∴ (or use the palette to produce them)