ASSIGNMENT

MEHAR RAIQUE
SAJJAD

Date
27-11-2023
Course title
LOGICS/MGT-204
DR YASIR ARFAT
The Importance of Studying Logic in Business Studies
 Introduction

In the dynamic landscape of business, where decisions can have profound implications on
organizational success or failure, the study of logic emerges as a critical foundation for sound
decision-making. Logic, defined as the science of reasoning, provides a systematic framework for
evaluating arguments, identifying fallacies, and making well-founded decisions. This essay explores
the significance of studying logic in the context of business studies, elucidating how it fosters
analytical thinking, enhances problem-solving abilities, and contributes to effective communication
within the business realm.

 Analytical Thinking and Decision Making

At the heart of business studies lies the imperative to make informed and strategic decisions. Logic
serves as a cornerstone in developing the ability to analyze information critically. Business
professionals often grapple with complex data, diverse perspectives, and intricate scenarios. Through
the study of logic, individuals cultivate the skills to dissect these complexities, identify relevant
information, and form logical conclusions. Analytical thinking, honed through logical reasoning,
empowers business leaders to navigate uncertainties, mitigate risks, and seize opportunities in a
methodical manner.

 Effective Problem Solving

In the realm of business, problem-solving is an inherent and constant endeavor. From operational
challenges to strategic dilemmas, professionals encounter multifaceted problems that demand
systematic resolution. The study of logic equips individuals with structured problem-solving
methodologies. By understanding and applying logical principles, business practitioners can break
down intricate problems into manageable components, identify root causes, and devise effective
solutions. Logic, in this context, serves as a guiding light, leading business professionals through the
labyrinth of challenges toward innovative and pragmatic resolutions.

Logical Communication in Business

Communication is the lifeblood of any successful business. The ability to convey ideas, strategies,
and decisions effectively is paramount. Logic contributes significantly to the clarity and coherence of
communication within the business domain. Studying logic facilitates precision in language, ensuring
that messages are conveyed with accuracy and without ambiguity. Moreover, it enables individuals to
construct convincing arguments and articulate their viewpoints persuasively. Logical communication
not only fosters a shared understanding among team members but also enhances the persuasive
power of business leaders in negotiations, presentations, and stakeholder engagements.

REPORT TITLE PAGE 2

Ethical Decision-Making

Business ethics, an integral aspect of business studies, requires careful consideration of moral
principles and values in decision-making. Logic plays a pivotal role in ethical reasoning by providing a
framework to evaluate the consistency and validity of ethical arguments. It enables business
professionals to critically assess ethical dilemmas, identify potential ethical lapses, and make
decisions that align with ethical standards. Logic, therefore, becomes an ethical compass guiding
individuals in the business world toward decisions that uphold integrity and social responsibility.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the study of logic in business studies is not merely an academic pursuit; rather, it is a
foundational discipline that underpins the core competencies required for success in the business
realm. Logic fosters analytical thinking, refines problem-solving skills, enhances communication, and
guides ethical decision-making. As businesses navigate an increasingly complex and competitive
environment, the importance of logical reasoning becomes ever more pronounced. It is through the
lens of logic that businesses can achieve clarity, coherence, and ethical integrity, ultimately driving
success and sustainability in today's dynamic business landscape.

Business students are managers of tomorrow therefore thinking critically and objectively
will be their key to success. Logic is a study to distinguish between correct and incorrect
reasoning which is vital in making various business decisions. This is a concept paper that
explored various books and articles for analysing the significance of logic as a subject in
business discipline. The paper has also elaborated various topics that are part of its
syllabus and their application in professional and practical life after completion of
business degree. The topic includes; identifying arguments, deduction and induction,
solving problems and puzzles, functions of language, definitions, fallacies, and symbolic
logic. Logic was taught in some universities to business and commerce students, but due
to unidentified reasons it has been excluded and, in some schools, it has never taught. An

REPORT TITLE PAGE 3

experimental study can be conducted on sample of students by teaching them Logic and
its effects can be investigated afterwards that will provide some directions in curriculum
design and implementation. In the world of competition, it has become crucial to prove
something true or false but reaching at objectivity will help in business research and
development and assist managers to make practical decisions. And for discovering the
objective reality it is not negligible to set aside logic.
Keywords: Business Studies, Curriculum, Reasoning, Objectivity

*Lecturer, University of Sindh, Laar Campus, Badin.

Journal of Education and Research ISSN 1027-0280 Volume 12, No. 2, December 2016
50

Introduction
Man is bestowed with the ability to reason and it is one of the distinct characteristics
from other creature and makes him greatest of all creation. Logic is science of reasoning and
art of convincing others and rejecting something invalid or unsound. The structure of
arguments and systems is the goal of logical investigation, it is also doctrine of general
notions or concepts, the doctrine of judgments, and the doctrine of syllogism or rational
discourse are integral parts of logical science (Tigert, 2006). Logic is believed to be emerged
in the era of Hazrat Idrees A.S (Soomro, 2006) and evolved by various societies but the
literature is dominated by Greek work, and further criticized and amended by Indians,
Chinese, Muslims, Europeans, et al.
The modern logic is based on symbols and calculus and is less disputable as
compared to Aristotelian and traditional logic but it may cause students to apply the definition
given by Charles Darwin 'A mathematician is a blind man in a dark room looking for a black
cat which isn't there'; in that situation the study of Aristotelian and traditional logic will
develop analytical reasoning in students rather learning rot the formulas.
"Logic is the beginning ofwisdom, not the end". Leonard Nimoy (Brainy Quotes).
Stanford University (2014) stated in introduction to its course of Logic that it is one of the
oldest intellectual disciplines in the history, which has been studied through the centuries
though still immensely required for investigation in the world of technological
advancements.
Relevant Scholarship
An empirical study found that subjects which are related to general life are liked,
enjoyed and easily understood by business students, as Logic is liked by 20% which is highest
percentage as compared to other subjects taught in business education (Makhdoom, Bhatti,
& Munshi, 2014).
Hanna and Villiers (2008) recommended that research is required to support or
disconfirm the notion that teaching students the principles of formal logic increases their
ability to prove or to understand proofs. Logic in curriculum provides an excellent
opportunity to develop students' high-level reasoning skills so that they correctly apply them
to actual reasoning situations (Krishan, 2013). Many educators suggest students must be
Journal of Education and Research ISSN 1027-0280 Volume 12, No. 2, December 2016
51

made familiar with the principles of argumentation and should be taught proof (Morou &
Kalospyros, 2011).
Explore Importance of the Problem
Logic assists in reasoning systematically to produce logical conclusions and only

REPORT TITLE PAGE 4

logical conclusions. It has applications in mathematics, science, engineering, business, law,
and so forth (Stanford, 2014).
"In a republican nation, whose citizens are to be led by persuasion and not by force,
the art of reasoning becomes of the first importance ". Thomas Jefferson cited by (Copi &
Cohen, 2010)
Businesspersons need to be efficient in developing argument and bargaining
(Gagliardi, 1986), so this subject helps the students becoming wise and making rational
decisions, while understanding good argumentation can help them spot the faulty arguments
that are used to manipulate them for instance sellers want to sell products that don't actually
work or medical products that are not for the prescribed problem. Hence, they can be spared
from waste of money by buying such products (Gray, 2013).
Logic was included in the courses of various business schools but due to unknown
and unidentified reasons it is being excluded. The inefficiency and ineffectiveness of
something is mostly attributed to its unimportance, which is not always the fact. If a certain
activity is not giving desired results its solution is not to skip the activity but identifying the
reason and then taking corrective action is a rational step. This is a concept paper focuses on
teaching of logic subject in business studies by exploring various books and articles for
probing the importance and application of logic as a subject in business discipline.
Research Questions
i. What is the importance of topics taught in Logic subject in Business studies?
ii. How can Logic subject help students in comprehending and accomplishing their
studies?
iii. How can logic subject help in job acquisition, problem solving, decision making,
and career development?
Journal of Education and Research ISSN 1027-0280 Volume 12, No. 2, December 2016
52

Motivation
Logic will help youngsters think objectively and critically rather building castle in
the air. Logic is taught to Islamic scholars in seminaries because it helps them being more
assertive and convincing for promoting their philosophies and persisting with their
convictions (Nofal, 1993). Business studies encompasses leadership and management
theories, and by logical concepts a leader can distinguish and analyse the status quo and
maintain or change it if required rather being servile and subservient. Business needs more
persuasions therefore, resolute and self-possessed managers are harbingers of success in a
business organization (Goleman, 2003).
Discussion
Logic in included as one of the suggestive course titles with 3 credit hours in HEC
Curriculum (Higher Education Commission, 2012). Listed below are the few topics
prescribed by HEC in course outline of Logic. Their application in professional life and
business is also discussed.
Arguments
For career success one needs to know how to make an effective case, to make a
good argument (Gallo, 2014). Gerald Graff was cited in 'Education Week' as giving the
following advice to students: "Recognize that knowing a lot of stuff won 't do you much
good, unless you can do something with what you know by turning it into an argument ".
Students can learn strong arguments by engaging in a highly interesting activity of preparing
arguments in both simple and challenging way (Hillocks, 2010). It's about creating a claim
and supporting that claim with evidence. It is neither persuasion nor about conflict or winning

REPORT TITLE PAGE 5

(Cleaver, 2015). For a successful career it is vital to use argument, arguments help in
acquisition ofjob and becoming an assertive and dynamic employee in organization. It will
help in job interview as a candidate or as recruiter afterwards.
Solving Problem and puzzles
Logical games and puzzles are great entertainment as Copi and Cohen (2010) cited
philosopher John Dewery' words "the enjoyment of the doubtful is the mark of educated
mind". Study of logic will help in solving problems, which involves moving from known to
Journal of Education and Research ISSN 1027-0280 Volume 12, No. 2, December 2016
53

unknown. Puzzles can be solved while teaching the topic that will help in inductive reasoning
and solving business and practical life problems (Cottrell, 2011). For class activity clues are
provided and the names or other facts about certain characters are determined. For solving
puzzles firstly the sphere is identified in which enough information is given. Sometimes when
problems are more complex, graphical display is constructed that is called matrix (Copi &
Cohen, 2010). The arrays are filled with crosses or 'N' (for No) by identifying what is 'not
possible to be' and when all the boxes of one column or row are filled except one so it is
concluded that the information in that empty box is true, and that box is checked or filled
with 'Y'. By doing so the results are drawn. This topic can help in attempting analytical
reasoning portion of various tests namely; Graduate Assessment Test, National Aptitude
Test, Graduate Record Examination etc.
Functions of language
Business is done by people, with people and for people, so being most unpredictable
and reacting stimuli, it is vital to communicate with them tactically (McLean, 2005),
therefore use of appropriate function of language in particular situation can be taught to
business graduates in logic, i.e. informative, directive, expressive, ceremonial or
performative. The grammatical forms of language are essentially four: declarative,
interrogative, imperative and exclamatory. But no sure connection is found between the
grammatical form of a passage and the author's intention to use language (Copi & Cohen,
2010). Most of time, a given function of language is not executed by using language in
specific grammatical form. Language is too loose and its uses too variable. Context is critical
for determining the real function of a sentence. Language that serves any of the functions
may be in any of the four grammatical forms (Grice, 1970).
This will help in understanding what is actually said by others in oral or written
communication and will also help in effective communication rather using incorrect language
with improper tone. It will also help in preparing questionnaire and other types of data
collection for research studies and writing dissertation.
Deduction and Induction
There are two types of arguments inductive and deductive. A deductive argument is
one whose premises are claimed to provide conclusive grounds for the truth of its conclusions
Journal of Education and Research ISSN 1027-0280 Volume 12, No. 2, December 2016
54

(Krishan, 2013). Theory of deduction seeks to explain the relation of premises and conclusion
in valid arguments for discriminating between valid and invalid deductions. In inductive
argument the arguer claims that it is improbable that the conclusion be false given that the
premises are true. It clams about probability not about certainty. Deductive arguments
include: Argument based on mathematics, Arguments from definitions, Categorical
syllogism, Hypothetical syllogism, and Disjunctive syllogism, to name just few. While

REPORT TITLE PAGE 6

inductive arguments comprise Prediction, Argument from analogy, Generalization,
Argument from authority, Argument based on signs, Causal inference and many more
(Hurley, 2003).
For coaxing, contradicting or debating with someone students can grasp the use of
deductive and inductive arguments. It will also help in hypotheses development, testing and
accepting or rejecting them.
Definitions
Most of logicians opine that purpose of definition is to exclusively explicate the
meaning of words. Some logicians said that definition provide a means for the discovery of
deeper philosophical truths (Hurley, 2003). Definitions also believed to resolve disputes by
categorically define the terms. Many logicians took a pragmatic approach and surveyed
various kinds of definition that are actually used for particular function they serve, i.e. lexical,
stipulative, precising, persuasive and theoretical whichever suits the situation (Copi &
Cohen, 2010).
Though people frequently encounter definitions and make mistakes in formulating
them, which fails to serve the purpose it intends to. Lexical definition is one that reports the
meaning of a word, so there are certain rules for constructing lexical definition that should
be followed (Hurley, 2003).
In professional life business persons has to define various terms; for describing
policies and rules, for promotion of products, documentations, reporting; therefore, having
proper knowledge about kinds of definition business persons can choose exactly, rather
applying wrong one at wrong place. The rules taught to them will help them avoiding
mistakes in formulating definitions that may convey a wrong meaning.

Journal of Education and Research ISSN 1027-0280 Volume 12, No. 2, December 2016
55

Fallacies
Woods (2004) motivated for the systematic study of fallacious reasoning and
argument. A fallacy is a common misconception; that is, a false statement that is widely
believed. Logicians use the word 'fallacy' more narrowly by denying it being 'just any error
in reasoning' but a 'typical errors', hence each fallacy is a type of incorrect argument.
Language is slippery and imprecise, so caution must be taken in committing and identifying
others' fallacies and refrain from accusing others if they are not committing. There is long
list of fallacies described by different logicians, and in different book with interchangeable
names, i.e. Appeal to force, Appeal to pity, Appeal to people, Argument against the person,
Accident, Converse accident, Missing the point, Appeal to unqualified authority, Appeal to
ignorance, False cause, Complex question, Equivocation, Amphiboly, Composition,
Division, Accent and many more (Hurley, 2003).
For being eloquent and articulate the knowhow of fallacies will stop them to commit
and help in identifying others' fallacies — which commonly people do rather be lured by
them (Kiersz, 2014). Advertisement and promotional discourses are full of fallacies, business
persons can be fooled by suppliers and other contractors if they don't understand fallacies.
Understanding of fallacies will also help them to be conversant customers and it will also
help them in formulating arguments for their business promotion without being fallacious
(McLean, 2005).

Symbolic logic
There are two bodies of logical theory the first is classical or Aristotelian logic, and

REPORT TITLE PAGE 7

the second modern or symbolic or mathematical logic. Modern logic alike Classical logic
also discriminates valid from invalid arguments using different concepts and techniques. It
also depends on fundamental logical connections on which deductive arguments depends. A
general account of such arguments is given by the use of the connections then methods for
test of validity of arguments are developed. Symbolic logic overcomes the difficulties of
classical logic with an artificial language in which logical connections can be formulated with
precision (Carnap, 2012). Symbols facilitate thinking about arguments, they enable people to
get to heart of an argument, exhibiting its essential nature and putting aside what is not
essential. With symbols some logical operations can be performed almost mechanically with
Journal of Education and Research ISSN 1027-0280 Volume 12, No. 2, December 2016
56

the eye that might otherwise require great effort. Classical logicians also understood the
importance of symbols for analysis. However, much real progress has been made in twentieth
century, in devising and using logical symbols more effectively (Copi & Cohen, 2010).
This topic will also equip students with skills that will help in attempting various
tests in short period of time by finding a conclusion with the use of symbols, and the practice
will also assist in professional life's problem solving afterwards.
Conclusion
In the world of competition, it has become crucial to prove something true or false
but reaching at objectivity will help in business research and development and assist
managers to make practical decisions. For discovering the objective reality, it is not rational
to set aside logic. The subject will improve students' objectivity, analytical reasoning,
effective writing, verbal discourse or debates, decision making, identifying and solving
problems. It will help in accusation of job, proving oneself deserving for job by using sound
and valid arguments. During a job interview a candidate will also use proper function of
language and definitions in answering what is enquired. They can also rescue themselves
from fallacies or treat them tactfully if committed by employers or interviewers. This subject
will prepare students for being assertive and sharp employees that will not submissively bow
for any illogical demand and with sound reasoning progress themselves and contribute to
organizational effectiveness. It will also help in conducting research studies: identifying and
defining problems, development of hypotheses, proposing theories or thesis, developing
questionnaires or administering interviews, reporting findings or results, and writing research
articles or dissertation. The syllabus should be laced with class activities and exercises that
suggest the practical applications of the field.
An experimental study is suggested on sample of students by teaching them Logic
and its effects can be measured afterwards that will give some directions in curriculum design
and implementation. The subject will improve students' approach to discern, comprehend,
and interpretations and accessibility to logical concepts while preserving rigor.

Journal of Education and Research ISSN 1027-0280 Volume 12, No. 2, December 2016
57

References
 Gagliardi, P. (1986). The creation and change of organizational cultures: A
conceptual framework. Organization studies, 7(2), 1 17-134.
 Carnap, R. (2012). Introduction to symbolic logic and its applications. Courier
Corporation.
 Cleaver, S. (2015). Making a Claim: Teaching Students Argument Writing Through

REPORT TITLE PAGE 8

Close Reading. Retrieved from We are
Teachers:
http://www.weareteachers.com/blogs/post/2015/03/13/making-a-
claimteaching-students-argument-writing-through-close-reading.
 Copi, I. M., & Cohen, C. (2010). Introduction to Logic (14 ed.). Delhi, Chennai,
India: Pearson.
 Cottrell, S. (2011). Critical thinking skills: Developing effective analysis and
argument. Palgrave Macmillan.
 Gallo, A. (2014). Choose the Right Words in an Argument. Retrieved from Harvard
Business Review: https://hbr.org/2014/06/choose-the-right-words-in-
anargument
 Goleman, D. (2003). What makes a leader. Organizational influence processes,
229241.
 Gray, J. (2013). Why Logic is Important. Retrieved from Ethical Realism:
 https://ethicalrealism.wordpress.com/
 Grice, H. P. (1970). Logic and conversation (pp. 41-58). na.
 Hanna, G., & de Villiers, M. (2008). ICMI Study 19: Proof and proving in
mathematics education. ZDM, 40(2), 329-336.
 Higher Education Commission. (2012). Curriculum of Business Administration for
BBA, BBS, MBA & MS. Islamabad, Pakistan: Higher Education
commission.
 Hillocks, G. (2010). " EJ" in Focus: Teaching Argument for Critical Thinking and
Writing: An Introduction. The English Journal, 99(6), 24-32.
 Hurley, P. J. (2003). A concise Introduction to Logic (8 ed.). Belmont, USA: Holly
J. Allen.
Journal of Education and Research ISSN 1027-0280 Volume 12, No. 2, December 2016
58

 Kiersz, A. (2014). 14 logical fallacies that keep showing up in bad arguments.

Retrieved from Business Insider:
http://www.businessinsider.com/commonfallacies- 2014-15
 Krishan, K. R. (2013). Why we should teach logic in schools. Retrieved from
TodayOnline:http://www.today_online.com/commentary/why-we-
shouldteach-logic-schools
 Makhdoom, T. R., Bhatti, K. R., & Munshi, P. (2014). Students'attitude towards
Business Studies: An Empirical Study of Sindh University Laar
Campus Badin. The Sindh University Journal ofEducation, 60-70.
 McLean, S. (2005). Speaking Ethically and Avoiding Fallacies. In Business
Communication for Success. Flate World Education. Retrieved from
Business Communication for Success:
 http ://catalog.flatworldlmowledge.com/bookhub/reader/15 ch14
s06#mclean-chab (online not found specific reference)
 Morou, A. P., & Kalospyros, N. A. (2011). The Role ofLogic in Teaching, Learning
and Analyzing Proof. Retrieved from
http://www.cerme7.univ.rzeszow.pl/.../CERME7

 Nofal, N. (1993). Al-Ghazali's Theory of Education. Prospects: the quarterly review

ofcomparative education, 23(3/4), pp. 519-542.

REPORT TITLE PAGE 9

 Soomro, M. Q. (2006). Story of Hazrat Idrees A.S. In Qasasul Ambia (p. 50).
Kandiaro, Pakistan: Roshni Publication.
 Stanford. (2014). Introduction to Logic. Retrieved from Coursera:
https://www.coursera.org/course/intrologic
 Tigert, J. J. (2006). Sphere of Logical Science. In Handbook of Logic (4 ed., p. 13).
New Delhi, India: Cosmo Publications.
 Woods, J. H. (2004). The death of argument: fallacies in agent-based reasoning (Vol.
32). Springer Science & Business Media.
Citations (0)
References (18)
ICMI Study 19: Proof and proving in mathematics education
Article
Full-text available

 May 2008

 Gila Hanna

 Michael De Villiers
 On behalf of the International Program Committee

View
Critical Thinking Skills: Developing Effective Analysis and Argument
Book

 Jan 2011

 Stella Cottrell

View
Logic and conversation
Article

 Jan 1991

 H.P. Grice

View
Teaching argument for critical thinking and writing: An introduction
Article

 Jan 2010

 G. Hillocks

REPORT TITLE PAGE 10

View
The Creation and Change of Organizational Cultures: A Conceptual Framework
Article

 Apr 1986

 Pasquale Gagliardi

View
Show abstract
A Concise Introduction to Logic
Article

 Jan 2003

 J Patrick

View
Introduction to symbolic logic and its applications
Article

 Rudolf Carnap
 William H. Meyer
 John Wilkinson

View
Making a Claim: Teaching Students Argument Writing Through Close Reading

 Jan 2015

 S Cleaver

 Cleaver, S. (2015). Making a Claim: Teaching Students Argument Writing Through Close Reading. Retrieved
from We are Teachers: http://www.weareteachers.com/blogs/post/2015/03/13/making-aclaimteaching-students-
argument-writing-through-close-reading.
Choose the Right Words in an Argument

 Jan 2003
 229241

 A Gallo

 Gallo, A. (2014). Choose the Right Words in an Argument. Retrieved from Harvard Business Review:
https://hbr.org/2014/06/choose-the-right-words-inanargument  Goleman, D. (2003). What makes a leader.
Organizational influence processes, 229241.
Why Logic is Important

REPORT TITLE PAGE 11

  Jan 2013

 J Gray

 Gray, J. (2013). Why Logic is Important. Retrieved from Ethical Realism: 

https://ethicalrealism.wordpress.com/
Show more

REPORT TITLE PAGE 12