What is logic

Main thing

Logic, in its simplest form, is the science of how we think and make decisions. It's like a guidebook for your mind, helping you navigate through the maze of thoughts and ideas that constantly swirl around in your head. It's about making sense of things, about finding the best path from A to B, about figuring out what's true and what's not. For example, if you're trying to decide whether to take an umbrella when you leave the house, you might use logic to weigh up the evidence (like the dark clouds in the sky) and come to a conclusion (better take that umbrella).

Terms

• Logic: It's the science of correct reasoning. Example: Using logic, you can deduce that if all men are mortal and Socrates is a man, then Socrates is mortal.

• Reasoning: It's the action of thinking about something in a logical, sensible way. Example: Her reasoning for taking the job was that it offered good career prospects.

• Conclusion: It's a judgement or decision reached by reasoning. Example: After considering all the evidence, the detective came to the conclusion that the butler was the murderer.

• Evidence: It's the available body of facts or information indicating whether a belief or proposition is true or valid. Example: The fingerprints on the weapon were clear evidence of the suspect's guilt.

An analogy

Think of logic as a GPS for your mind. Just as a GPS uses data to help you navigate from one place to another, logic uses facts and reasoning to help you navigate through thoughts and ideas to reach a conclusion. For example, if you're trying to decide whether to invest in a certain company, you would use logic to analyze the data (like the company's financial reports and market trends) and make an informed decision.

A main misconception

A common misconception about logic is that it's cold and emotionless, that it doesn't take into account feelings or personal experiences. But that's not true. Logic is simply a tool that helps us make sense of the world. It doesn't ignore emotions, but it helps us not to be ruled by them. For example, you might feel scared to ride a roller coaster, but logic can help you understand that the ride is safe and your fear is irrational.

The history

1. The study of logic dates back to ancient Greece, around the 4th century BC, with the philosopher Aristotle often considered the father of logic. He wrote six works collectively known as the "Organon" that form the core of his thought on logic.

2. During the Middle Ages, around the 5th to the 15th century AD, logic became the main focus of philosophy. Philosophers during this time developed complex systems of logical thought, often incorporating religious and theological ideas into their understanding of logic.

3. The Renaissance period, from the 14th to the 17th century, saw a revival of interest in classical Greek and Roman thought, including the study of logic. This period also saw the development of new logical systems and methods, as philosophers sought to reconcile ancient wisdom with new discoveries and ideas.

4. The modern era of logic began in the late 19th century with the work of mathematicians like George Boole and Gottlob Frege. They developed formal systems of logic that used mathematical symbols and notation, laying the groundwork for the field of mathematical logic.

5. In the 20th century, logic expanded beyond the realm of philosophy and mathematics and found applications in new fields like computer science and linguistics. Today, logic is a fundamental part of many disciplines, helping us understand and navigate the complexities of the modern world.

As the philosopher Ludwig Wittgenstein, a key figure in the development of logic in the 20th century, once said, "Logic takes care of itself; all we have to do is to look and see how it does it."

Three cases how to use it right now

1. Case 1: Let's say you're trying to decide whether to buy a new car. You would use logic to weigh the pros and cons, considering factors like the cost, the car's features, and your personal needs. The main benefits of using this knowledge are that it helps you make an informed decision and avoid potential regrets.

2. Case 2: Imagine you're a detective trying to solve a crime. You would use logic to analyze the evidence, draw connections, and come up with theories about what happened. The main benefits of using this knowledge are that it helps you solve complex problems and find the truth.

3. Case 3: Suppose you're a software developer designing a new app. You would use logic to plan out the app's functions, troubleshoot problems, and ensure the app works as intended. The main benefits of using this knowledge are that it helps you create effective solutions and improve your problem-solving skills.

Interesting facts

1. The word "logic" comes from the Greek word "logos," which means "reason" or "plan."

2. Aristotle, often considered the father of logic, wrote six works collectively known as the "Organon" that form the core of his thought on logic.

3. Logic is not only used in philosophy and mathematics, but also in fields like computer science, where it forms the basis of programming languages.