RAZUL M.

ABUTAZIL PHILOSOPHY IN EDUCATION

Logic and Philosophy of Mathematics

What came first? Chicken or egg? What came first? Mathematics or Experience?

Logic and philosophy of mathematics can be traced back to ancient times.

Logic: is often seen as the study of the laws of thought, correct
reasoning, valid inference, or logical truth. It is a formal science that
investigates how conclusions follow from premises in a topic-neutral
manner, i.e., independent of the specific subject matter discussed.
 Logic is an ancient area of philosophy which, while extensively being studied
in Universities for centuries, not much happened (unlike other areas of
philosophy) from ancient times until the end of the 19th century.
 Philosophy is based on reasoning, and logic is the study of what makes a
sound argument, and also of the kind of mistakes we can make in
reasoning. So, study logic and you will become a better philosopher and a
clearer thinker generally.”
 The definition of logic is a science that studies the principles of correct
reasoning.
 An example of logic is deducing that two truths imply a third truth. An
example of logic is the process of coming to the conclusion of who stole a
cookie based on who was in the room at the time.
 logic is a branch of mathematics and a branch of philosophy.
 Logic is the study of Truth and how we can obtain universal Truths trough
mathematical deduction. It is the most basic language of mathematics, and
the underlying principle of proof. Mathematical logic and reasoning dates
back many thousand years, to ancient Egyptian architects and Babylonian
astronomers.
 The study of logic is essential for work in the foundations of mathematics,
which is largely concerned with the nature of mathematical truth and with
justifying proofs about mathematical objects, such as integers, complex
numbers, and infinite sets.
 However, understanding mathematical logic helps us understand ambiguity
and disagreement. It helps us understand where the disagreement is
coming from. It helps us understand whether it comes from different use of
logic, or different building blocks.
 The logic used to explain miracles of everyday life, thinking logically helps
man to question the functioning of everything around us, the logic used to
argue and is somehow a thought an idea that influences us for an action we
do in our daily lives.
 Ancient Origins: The study of logic can be traced back to ancient Greece, with philosophers
like Aristotle making significant contributions. Aristotle's work on logic, particularly his
treatises "Organon," laid the foundation for formal logic.
Medieval Logic: During the Middle Ages, logic continued to be studied and developed,
primarily in the context of scholastic philosophy. Scholars like Thomas Aquinas and William
of Ockham made notable contributions to logical theory.
Modern Logic: The development of modern logic began in the late 19th century with the
work of mathematicians and philosophers such as Gottlob Frege, Bertrand Russell, and
Alfred North Whitehead. They sought to formalize logic using symbolic notation and set
theory, leading to the development of mathematical logic.

Philosophy of Mathematics: is the branch of philosophy that studies the

philosophical assumptions, foundations, and implications of mathematics
(Hilbert, 1996)
: Studies the nature of mathematical truth,
mathematical proof, mathematical evidence, mathematical practice, and
mathematical explanation (Russell,1997)
Ancient Greek Mathematics: The philosophical inquiry into the nature of mathematics can
be traced back to ancient Greece. Mathematicians like Pythagoras and Euclid explored the
foundations and principles of mathematics, raising questions about the nature of numbers,
geometric figures, and mathematical truth.
Formalism and Intuitionism: In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, different schools of
thought emerged in the philosophy of mathematics. Formalists, such as David Hilbert,
viewed mathematics as a formal system based on logical rules. Intuitionists, like L.E.J.
Brouwer, emphasized the role of intuition and mental construction in mathematics.
Logicism and Platonism: Another influential perspective in the philosophy of mathematics is
logicism, championed by philosophers like Bertrand Russell and Alfred North Whitehead.
Logicisms argued that mathematics can be reduced to logic and set theory. Platonists, on
the other hand, view mathematical objects as existing independently of human thought.
Contemporary Developments: In the 20th and 21st centuries, the philosophy of
mathematics has continued to evolve and engage with various foundational and conceptual
issues. Areas of study include the nature of mathematical objects, the relationship between
mathematics and reality, the limits of mathematical knowledge, and the role of
mathematics in scientific inquiry.
Is logic part of math or philosophy?
Logic is an ancient area of philosophy which, while extensively being studied in Universities for
centuries, not much happened (unlike other areas of philosophy) from ancient times until the end of
the 19th century.

How is logic related to philosophy?

Philosophy is based on reasoning, and logic is the study of what makes a sound argument, and also
of the kind of mistakes we can make in reasoning. So, study logic and you will become a better
philosopher and a clearer thinker generally.”

What is an example of logic?

The definition of logic is a science that studies the principles of correct reasoning.

An example of logic is deducing that two truths imply a third truth. An example of logic is the
process of coming to the conclusion of who stole a cookie based on who was in the room at the
time.

Is logic a philosophy?

Introduction. Today, logic is a branch of mathematics and a branch of philosophy.

How is logic related to mathematics?

Logic is the study of Truth and how we can obtain universal Truths trough mathematical
deduction. It is the most basic language of mathematics, and the underlying principle of proof.
Mathematical logic and reasoning dates back many thousand years, to ancient Egyptian architects
and Babylonian astronomers.

What is the importance of logic in mathematics?

The study of logic is essential for work in the foundations of mathematics, which is largely concerned
with the nature of mathematical truth and with justifying proofs about mathematical objects, such
as integers, complex numbers, and infinite sets.

How is math logic used in real life?

However, understanding mathematical logic helps us understand ambiguity and disagreement. It

helps us understand where the disagreement is coming from. It helps us understand whether it
comes from different use of logic, or different building blocks.

How do you use logic in everyday life?

The logic used to explain miracles of everyday life, thinking logically helps man to question the
functioning of everything around us, the logic used to argue and is somehow a thought an idea that
influences us for an action we do in our daily lives.

The proponent of logic and mathematics philosophy is Bertrand Russell. He made significant
contributions to the field of logic and philosophy of mathematics. Russell's work on logic and
mathematics laid the foundation for the development of formal logic and the philosophy of
mathematics in the 20th century. His book "Principia Mathematica," written with Alfred North
Whitehead, is considered a seminal work in the field. Russell's philosophical views also encompassed
a wide range of topics, including epistemology, metaphysics, and ethics.

Logic and mathematics philosophy play crucial roles in education. Here are a few ways in which they
contribute:

1. Critical Thinking: Logic helps develop critical thinking skills, enabling students to analyze and
evaluate arguments and evidence. It teaches them to reason logically, identify fallacies, and make
sound judgments. Mathematics, on the other hand, enhances problem-solving abilities and logical
reasoning.

2. Rational Decision Making: Logic and mathematics philosophy provide students with the tools to
make rational decisions based on evidence and logical reasoning. They learn to evaluate options,
weigh pros and cons, and make informed choices.

3. Precision and Clarity: Mathematics and logic promote precision and clarity in communication.
They teach students to express ideas precisely, use clear and concise language, and construct logical
arguments. This skill is valuable across various subjects and disciplines.

4. Problem Solving: Mathematics philosophy emphasizes problem-solving skills. It equips students

with strategies to approach complex problems, break them down into manageable steps, and find
solutions. This problem-solving mindset is transferable to other areas of life.
5. Analytical Skills: Logic and mathematics philosophy cultivate analytical skills. Students learn to
break down complex ideas into smaller components, identify patterns and relationships, and analyze
data. These skills are vital for scientific research, data analysis, and decision-making in various fields.
6. Foundation for STEM Education: Logic and mathematics philosophy provide the foundational
knowledge for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education. They form the
basis for understanding scientific principles, conducting experiments, and solving mathematical
problems.

In summary, logic and mathematics philosophy contribute to the development of critical thinking,
rational decision-making, precision in communication, problem-solving abilities, analytical skills, and
a strong foundation for STEM education. They are essential components of a well-rounded
education.

Logic and mathematics philosophy play important roles for both students and teachers. Let's explore
their roles individually:

Role for Students:

1. Critical Thinking: Logic and mathematics philosophy help students develop critical thinking skills.
They learn to analyze and evaluate arguments, identify logical fallacies, and make reasoned
judgments. This empowers them to think independently and make informed decisions.

2. Problem-Solving: Mathematics philosophy teaches students problem-solving skills. They learn to

approach complex problems systematically, break them down into smaller steps, and find solutions.
These problem-solving skills are transferable to various areas of life.

3. Analytical Skills: Logic and mathematics philosophy enhance students' analytical skills. They learn
to analyze data, identify patterns and relationships, and draw logical conclusions. These skills are
valuable in fields that require data analysis and logical reasoning.

4. Communication and Expression: Logic and mathematics philosophy promote precise and clear
communication. Students learn to express their ideas logically and coherently, using appropriate
mathematical language and symbols.

This skill is crucial for effective communication in both academic and professional settings.

Role for Teachers:

1. Instructional Strategies: Teachers can use logic and mathematics philosophy to design effective
instructional strategies. They can incorporate logical reasoning and problem-solving activities into
their lessons, encouraging students to think critically and apply mathematical concepts.
2. Assessment and Feedback: Logic and mathematics philosophy provide teachers with tools for
assessing students' understanding and providing constructive feedback. They can use logical
reasoning to evaluate students' arguments and identify areas where they may need additional
support.

3. Curriculum Development: Logic and mathematics philosophy inform the development of

curriculum and instructional materials. Teachers can ensure that logical reasoning and mathematical
thinking are integrated throughout the curriculum, promoting a deeper understanding of
mathematical concepts.
4. Professional Development: Teachers can engage in professional development opportunities
related to logic and mathematics philosophy. This allows them to enhance their own understanding
of these subjects and develop effective teaching strategies to engage and challenge their students.
Overall, logic and mathematics philosophy empower students to think critically, solve problems, and
communicate effectively. For teachers, they provide valuable tools for instruction, assessment,
curriculum development, and professional growth.

Logic and mathematics philosophy are related fields, but they have distinct focuses and approaches.
Here's a differentiation between the two:

Logic: - Focus: Logic primarily deals with reasoning, inference, and the study of valid and sound
arguments. – Nature: It is a formal discipline that explores the principles and rules of correct
reasoning. - Scope: Logic is not limited to mathematical reasoning but applies to reasoning in
general, including everyday arguments and philosophical reasoning. - Methodology: Logic uses
formal systems, such as propositional logic and predicate logic, to analyze the structure of
arguments and determine their validity. - Application: Logic is used to evaluate the validity of
arguments, identify logical fallacies, and construct coherent and well-supported arguments.
Mathematics Philosophy: - Focus: Mathematics philosophy focuses specifically on the philosophy of
mathematics, including the nature and foundations of mathematical concepts and reasoning. -
Nature: It is a branch of philosophy that investigates the ontological, epistemological, and logical
aspects of mathematics. - Scope: Mathematics philosophy explores questions such as the nature of
numbers, the existence of mathematical objects, the relationship between mathematics and reality,
and the limits of mathematical knowledge. - Methodology: Mathematics philosophy employs
philosophical analysis, conceptual clarification, and logical reasoning to examine foundational issues
in mathematics. - Application: Mathematics philosophy addresses fundamental questions about the
nature and significance of mathematics, its relationship to other areas of knowledge, and its role in
human understanding. In summary, logic focuses on reasoning in general, while mathematics
philosophy specifically examines the philosophical aspects of mathematics. Logic deals with the
principles of valid reasoning, while mathematics philosophy delves into the nature, foundations, and
philosophical implications of mathematics.

The background of logic and philosophy of mathematics can be traced back to ancient times. Here is
a brief overview of their historical development: Logic: - Ancient Origins: The study of logic can be
traced back to ancient Greece, with philosophers like Aristotle making significant contributions.
Aristotle's work on logic, particularly his treatises "Organon," laid the foundation for formal logic. -
Medieval Logic: During the Middle Ages, logic continued to be studied and developed, primarily in
the context of scholastic philosophy. Scholars like Thomas Aquinas and William of Ockham made
notable contributions to logical theory. - Modern Logic: The development of modern logic began in
the late 19th century with the work of mathematicians and philosophers such as Gottlob Frege,
Bertrand Russell, and Alfred North Whitehead. They sought to formalize logic using symbolic
notation and set theory, leading to the development of mathematical logic. Philosophy of
Mathematics: - Ancient Greek Mathematics: The philosophical inquiry into the nature of
mathematics can be traced back to ancient Greece. Mathematicians like Pythagoras and Euclid
explored the foundations and principles of mathematics, raising questions about the nature of
numbers, geometric figures, and mathematical truth. - Formalism and Intuitionism: In the late 19th
and early 20th centuries, different schools of thought emerged in the philosophy of mathematics.
Formalists, such as David Hilbert, viewed mathematics as a formal system based on logical rules.
Intuitionists, like L.E.J. Brouwer, emphasized the role of intuition and mental construction in
mathematics. - Logicism and Platonism: Another influential perspective in the philosophy of
mathematics is logicism, championed by philosophers like Bertrand Russell and Alfred North
Whitehead. Logicists argued that mathematics can be reduced to logic and set theory. Platonists, on
the other hand, view mathematical objects as existing independently of human thought.
Contemporary Developments: - In the 20th and 21st centuries, the philosophy of mathematics has
continued to evolve and engage with various foundational and conceptual issues. Areas of study
include the nature of mathematical objects, the relationship between mathematics and reality, the
limits of mathematical knowledge, and the role of mathematics in scientific inquiry. Overall, the
background of logic and philosophy of mathematics encompasses a rich history of inquiry, with
contributions from ancient Greek thinkers, medieval scholars, and modern mathematicians and
philosophers. It continues to be a vibrant field of study, exploring fundamental questions about the
nature, foundations, and significance of mathematics.

The definitions of 'logic' and 'mathematics' are themselves subject to dispute. In particular, the word
'logic' is used in different senses. At its narrowest, it is concerned with the relationship of
consequence between propositions or sentences. In a wider sense it is sometimes used as a
synonym for good reasoning, i.e. it has a cognitive component. In a wider sense still, it sometimes
means what is rational and prudent: according to Mr Spock, it is illogical to cause the extinction of a
species. Logicians themselves tend to stick to the narrow sense.

Also, the term has evolved over time. Originally logic was concerned with what distinguishes a good
argument from a bad one. It had a strong normative aspect. You ought to reason like this; you ought
not to reason like that. Today, whether logic is normative or descriptive is a debated question in the
philosophy of logic. Much of what used to be part of logic is now considered to be epistemology.

But I would say that the short answer to your question is that mathematical logic is simply logic done
with mathematical rigour. Which is to say, with a high degree of use of symbols and strict
formalisms, and typically expressed using formal languages, axioms, and rules. Logic as used by
philosophers is often expressed in natural language, because many arguments are difficult to
formalise precisely. As a result, such logic is often informal in nature, although many philosophers
use formal logic wherever feasible, just because it is less error prone and helps to avoid ambiguities
and other problems.

If you pick up an introductory textbook of mathematical logic it will start by teaching you classical
propositional logic and first order logic. It will most likely include some proof theory, model theory,
recursion theory, and set theory. Also, some meta level material about compactness, completeness,
undecidability, definability, and computability.

If you pick up an introductory textbook aimed at philosophers, it will also teach you classical
propositional and first order logic. You will get some proof theory, including formal methods of
natural deduction. You will probably get less material on completeness and computability, etc., but
you will likely get some coverage of common fallacies in reasoning, and maybe some material about
causal reasoning and some elementary probability theory.

Textbooks aimed at computer scientists, particularly those specialising in AI, will also teach you
classical propositional and first order logic. Again, you will get some proof theory and model theory.
And usually, some Bayesian probability theory and maybe an introduction to default logic.

As such, there is a great deal of overlap, and mostly the difference is one of emphasis.