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A Concise Introduction to Logic [with CD-ROM]
Unsurpassed for its clarity, conciseness, and comprehensiveness, Hurley's market-leading A CONCISE INTRODUCTION TO LOGIC has established itself as the standard for introductory logic classes. Hailed in the first eight editions for an unwavering commitment to lucid, focused, reader-friendly presentations of logic's basic topics, the latest edition also continues to expand upon Hurley's tradition of technological excellence with the introduction of vMentor and iLrn Logic. These two technologies help you manage the workload of teaching logic by providing your students with a live, online logic tutoring service and you with an online system that automates homework and test grading. In addition, Hurley's outstanding LEARNING LOGIC-an interactive, audio-visual recasting of the entire text-remains a free supplement with each copy of the text. Rounded out with a Book Companion Website that features student quizzing and interactive tutorials on Venn diagrams and truth tables, Hurley's A CONCISE INTRODUCTION TO LOGIC, Ninth Edition is not only the most logically sound choice that a professor could make for his or her logic course, but the most "technologically" sound choice as well.
656 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 1972
117 people are currently reading
1,474 people want to read
About the author
Patrick J. Hurley
79books18followersPatrick Hurley received his bachelor's degree in mathematics (with a second major in philosophy and a physics minor) from Gonzaga University in 1964 and his Ph.D. in philosophy of science with an emphasis in history of philosophy from Saint Louis University in 1973. In 1972, he began teaching at the University of San Diego, where his courses included logic, philosophy of science, metaphysics, process philosophy, and legal ethics. In 1987, he received his J.D. from the University of San Diego, and he is currently a member of the California Bar Association. He retired from teaching in 2008, but continues his research and writing, including work on A Concise Introduction to Logic. His interests include music, art, opera, environmental issues, fishing, and skiing. He is married to Dr. Linda Peterson, who retired from teaching philosophy at the University of San Diego in 2015.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews
January 30, 2014
NOPE! This book is just an expensive reminder that I am more pathological than logical. At first I thought I could handle Philosophy of Logic. The first few chapters made sense. Sure, I said to myself, I can see the fallacy in these arguments and whether they are deductive or inductive, etc. But then came the proofs.
PROOFS.
That was when I knew I was in a world of hurt. In high school I passed geometry with a very solid D. Everyday I stared at that stupid red origami crane, watching it mock me as I attempted--and was obliterated-- by proofs.
I ended up passing logic class with another solid D; proving that I am not only illogical, but I am consistent in my lack of understanding geometry.
PROOFS.
That was when I knew I was in a world of hurt. In high school I passed geometry with a very solid D. Everyday I stared at that stupid red origami crane, watching it mock me as I attempted--and was obliterated-- by proofs.
I ended up passing logic class with another solid D; proving that I am not only illogical, but I am consistent in my lack of understanding geometry.
January 17, 2021
My favourite logic textbook I've yet to read. I usually find them so dry and boring but this one was actually interesting and engaging...
August 27, 2013
It might seem odd to review a text book on the subject of logic. I happen to think the thing that our society is lacking most nowadays is simply the ability to make rational decisions based on the skill needed to understand analysis and distinguish the rational from the irrational. This book provides an excellent basis for disclosing poorly conceived political policies, finding flaws in what we read and see on television, and quite simply making sound arguments ourselves.
I find the chapter on Informal Fallacies one of the most interesting. Many meaningful examples are used and it is written in a way that is easy to understand. I personally don't have much interest in Propositional Logic (symbols and proposition tables and such), but I'm sure some people do and this is a good primer on that too.
I find the chapter on Informal Fallacies one of the most interesting. Many meaningful examples are used and it is written in a way that is easy to understand. I personally don't have much interest in Propositional Logic (symbols and proposition tables and such), but I'm sure some people do and this is a good primer on that too.
June 28, 2014
I have greatly enjoyed the study of logic, both in the context of college philosophy courses and in its application to daily life as the framework for rational thinking. Of the logic texts I have read and used (by Irving Copi, Trudy Govier and others) this is the one I most enjoyed reading and feel I most benefitted from. I have found that I most effectively gain mastery of new concepts through application and Hurley's book is packed with good examples. I found working through these useful in being able to recognize and apply logical (and illogical) thinking in daily life.
November 14, 2011
No CD-Rom back in '72 when I took a 5-credit hour course at Metro State. Very difficult and mathematical after the simple beginnings. I think we were all baffled. There were about ten guys in the class plus one female. Absolutely gorgeous woman... A tall, slender red-haired gal who worked as a stripper and invited her classmates to come and see the show. Married... Date is approximate.
July 3, 2017
The first logic textbook I went mostly through was by Copi and I must say Hurley's introduction was far better in format, content and exercises. I cannot speak though for the sections on propositional and predicate logic, for I didn't read them in either Copi or Hurley.
Having gone through much of the content and ordering of information that Hurley, Copi and others gave numerous times, I now think much is done simply to be done, without any sense of relationship and practical value, and lots of content doesn't easily translate into ordinary life. So I have doubts as to the relative value of these logic textbooks, compared to other works more focused on argumentation and induction. I recently discovered Stephen Toulmin, who recognizing the impracticability of much formal logic to ordinary life, and even the unhelpful ways induction is often expressed, created a method very relevant to all writers and speakers wanting to create well-reasoned and logical arguments. I wish all the time I spent grappling with Hurley was instead dedicated to mastering the Toulmin method, I think I would be better served.
Having gone through much of the content and ordering of information that Hurley, Copi and others gave numerous times, I now think much is done simply to be done, without any sense of relationship and practical value, and lots of content doesn't easily translate into ordinary life. So I have doubts as to the relative value of these logic textbooks, compared to other works more focused on argumentation and induction. I recently discovered Stephen Toulmin, who recognizing the impracticability of much formal logic to ordinary life, and even the unhelpful ways induction is often expressed, created a method very relevant to all writers and speakers wanting to create well-reasoned and logical arguments. I wish all the time I spent grappling with Hurley was instead dedicated to mastering the Toulmin method, I think I would be better served.
June 13, 2016
A gem of a book. Clear, concise, elegant and to the point. Makes one understand even the toughest topic of syllogistic logic in a easy way. A must for anyone who wants to learn about logic, fallacies, definitions and their origin, and philosophical approach of logic. It's a life changer if you want to develop the habit of debating or if you have to ever let people know why and how they are wrong during and argument. Mr Hurley has done an excellent job by writing this book. This is on top of the list of my favourite books.
August 15, 2009
A great introduction to logic. Well organized and clear, this is a great place to start for the person looking for exposure to the fundamentals of logic.
December 11, 2023
This is the best text book on classical logic I have ever read (also the only one)
April 27, 2024
Had to read for a class, probably would not recommend this one. Interesting if you like Philosophy though.
July 25, 2020
A few things I liked about this book:
1. It's very flexible and allows you to skip around. That's a deliberate feature highlighted in the introduction - the author offers several curricula that rearrange and omit various chapters and sections, depending on the interests of the student. Each chapter and even most sections are more-or-less indepndent - while the previous sections sometimes enrich the experience, they aren't necessary. Certainly the units are basically independent.
2. Unlike most logic books, this book puts language and rhetoric at the heart of every section. The books engages with real-world issues and arguments, drawing from a variety of authentic texts to both illustrate and serve as practice. The text is accessible, because the language/rhetoric informs the logic, rather than the other way around.
3. Every section has an unbelievable amount of practice material - around 40 exercises or more. Some are answered in the back.
4. There are plenty of graphics and visuals throughout the book.
If I had to make a complaint, it's that I got a little bogged down or bored by some sections. However, even that isn't really a complaint since the book was designed to allow me skip those sections. If you want a highly accessible logic book that focuses on real-world arguments, then this is the book for you.
1. It's very flexible and allows you to skip around. That's a deliberate feature highlighted in the introduction - the author offers several curricula that rearrange and omit various chapters and sections, depending on the interests of the student. Each chapter and even most sections are more-or-less indepndent - while the previous sections sometimes enrich the experience, they aren't necessary. Certainly the units are basically independent.
2. Unlike most logic books, this book puts language and rhetoric at the heart of every section. The books engages with real-world issues and arguments, drawing from a variety of authentic texts to both illustrate and serve as practice. The text is accessible, because the language/rhetoric informs the logic, rather than the other way around.
3. Every section has an unbelievable amount of practice material - around 40 exercises or more. Some are answered in the back.
4. There are plenty of graphics and visuals throughout the book.
If I had to make a complaint, it's that I got a little bogged down or bored by some sections. However, even that isn't really a complaint since the book was designed to allow me skip those sections. If you want a highly accessible logic book that focuses on real-world arguments, then this is the book for you.
December 31, 2016
Just finished this for a series of two classes I took: Introduction to Logic and Symbolic Logic. The only sections(s) I had trouble with were ACP and ICP, and I plan on doing more of the practice exercises contained at the end of the section.
On that note, the book's exercises are really helpful, and I liked how the concepts were explained. It' not a book I would normally read, or one I thought I would ever review, but these classes have helped me with my argumentation, and the text was an integral part of that. (I have the 7th edition)
On that note, the book's exercises are really helpful, and I liked how the concepts were explained. It' not a book I would normally read, or one I thought I would ever review, but these classes have helped me with my argumentation, and the text was an integral part of that. (I have the 7th edition)
December 10, 2008
Read this for a logic class. I would of much rather spent more time on the fallacies and seen more ways in which they are used both incorrectly and correctly. I didn't really care for anything else in the book. It was a decent textbook, but my horrible teacher didn't help, all she did was go through the book and never added anything else of her own.
June 3, 2019
As textbooks go, this one was still rather interesting and engaging. I might be biased since I do enjoy reading textbooks and academic journals. Even if boring, the context is important. Having the ability to argue productively is a tough skill to obtain but is extremely important. It is also missing in our culture. I feel this book would benefit everyone.
April 30, 2020
A bit child-like in its presentation and layout. But a good textbook source for information and not that long. Read as part of my LSAT studies. Read it twice to really absorb it: first at the start of my 'LSAT book reading' and then closer to my test after the other books and during preptests to really make myself a logic master for argument analysis.
January 25, 2019
كتاب عظيم جداا... يمكن دا اول كتاب حقيقي اشوفه في المنطق مش مجرد مقدمات وبس ... لغة الكتاب سهلة و واضحة لحد كبير ... يعتبر خطوة أولي كويسة جدا لاي حد عايز ياخد نظرة سريعة علي الأنظمة المنطقية الرئيسية المختلفة و ال informal logic كمان
July 5, 2023
my emotional support textbook, carried this everywhere with me for the last three weeks, memorized nearly all of it and now that I'm done PHIL 140 i will simply perish without it its constant presence in my life.
March 24, 2009
A Concise Introduction to Logic by Patrick J. Hurley (2007)
November 4, 2009
Second best logic book I know of and a prized possession. Logic makes the world go round, sometimes.
October 14, 2012
Loved it. It needed an additional chapter on inductive logic but I really enjoyed it and I will be using it as a bible for my LSAT studies... that is of course until I find a better book.
November 21, 2012
As expected, logical and concise. A good refresh for those of us who have let the day-to-day fragment our thoughts.
January 10, 2015
The Rules of Right Reasoning.
April 23, 2014
This a great introduction to logic. It can be long winded at times, but for the most part it does a well job of explaining the material. And do not worry, every chapter provides countless examples.
September 16, 2017
One of the best books in Logic. If you really interested to understand what is meant by deduction and induction, and formal and informal logic you should read this book.
March 22, 2019
The journey to logic starts here
December 13, 2019
Amazing.
November 5, 2020
Excellent book that I think everyone should read after they've taken a standard college freshman English writing class.
November 26, 2020
Useful resource, clear explanations and a good range of exercises to test your understanding
September 8, 2024
A clear, easy to understand book with real world examples to anyone who wants to be introduced to Logic as a subject.
Want to read
November 21, 2022OUTLINE OF THE THIRTEENTH EDITION OF A CONCISE INTRODUCTION TO LOGIC
Hurley & Watson 2018
όγος
‘Never let this thought prevail � that not-being is � keep your mind from this way of investigation.� � Sophist 237(a)
I. Informal Logic
� Preface [xi]
� Why Study Logic? [xxii]
1. Basic Concepts
§01 One Arguments, Premises, and Conclusions [001]
§02 Two Recognizing Arguments [014]
§03 Three Deduction and Induction [033]
§04 Four Validity, Truth, Soundness, Strength, Cogency [045]
§05 Five Argument Forms: Proving Invalidity [059]
§06 Six Extended Arguments [067]
2. Language: Meaning and Definition
§01 Seven Varieties of Meaning [081]
§02 Eight The Intension and Extension of Terms [092]
§03 Nine Definitions and Their Purposes [097]
§04 Ten Definitional Techniques [106]
§05 Eleven Criteria for Lexical Definitions [117]
3. Informal Fallacies
§01 Twelve Fallacies in General [125]
§02 Thirteen Fallacies of Relevance [128]
§03 Fourteen Fallacies of Weak Induction [147]
§04 Fifteen Fallacies of Presumption, Ambiguity, and Illicit Transference [165]
§05 Sixteen Fallacies in Ordinary Language [187]
II. Formal Logic
1. Categorical Propositions
§01 Seventeen The Components of Categorical Propositions [206]
§02 Eighteen Quality, Quantity, and Distribution [210]
§03 Nineteen Venn Diagrams and the Modern Square of Opposition [215]
§04 Twenty Conversion, Obversion, and Contraposition [229]
§05 Twenty-one The Traditional Square of Opposition [240]
§06 Twenty-two Venn Diagrams and the Traditional Standpoint [252]
§07 Twenty-three Translating Ordinary Language Statements into Categorical Form [260]
2. Categorical Syllogisms
§01 Twenty-four Standard Form, Mood, and Figure [274]
§02 Twenty-five Venn Diagrams [282]
§03 Twenty-six Rules and Fallacies [296]
§04 Twenty-seven Reducing the Number of Terms [305]
§05 Twenty-eight Ordinary Language Arguments [308]
§06 Twenty-nine Enthymemes [312]
§07 Thirty Sorites [314]
3. Propositional Logic
§01 Thirty-one Symbols and Translation [327]
§02 Thirty-two Truth Functions [341]
§03 Thirty-three Truth Tables for Propositions [354]
§04 Thirty-four Truth Tables for Arguments [364]
§05 Thirty-five Indirect Truth Tables [371]
§06 Thirty-six Argument Forms and Fallacies [381]
4. Natural Deduction in Propositional Logic
§01 Thirty-seven Rules of Implication I [403]
§02 Thirty-eight Rules of Implication II [416]
§03 Thirty-nine Rules of Replacement I [426]
§04 Fourty Rules of Replacement II [440]
§05 Fourty-one Conditional Proof [453]
§06 Fourty-two Indirect Proof [460]
§07 Fourty-three Proving Logical Tables [466]
5. Predicate Logic
§01 Fourty-four Symbols and Translation [470]
§02 Fourty-five Using the Rules of Inference [480]
§03 Fourty-six Quantifier Negation Rule [493]
§04 Fourty-seven Conditional and Indirect Proof [498]
§05 Fourty-eight Proving Invalidity [505]
§06 Fourty-nine Relational Predicates and Overlapping Quantifiers [512]
§07 Fifty Identity [523]
III. Inductive Logic
1. Analogy and Legal and Moral Reasoning
§01 Fifty-one Analogical Reasoning [540]
§02 Fifty-two Legal Reasoning [543]
§03 Fifty-three Moral Reasoning [547]
2. Causality and Mill’s Methods
§01 Fifty-four “Cause� and Necessary and Sufficient Conditions [560]
§02 Fifty-five Mill’s Five Methods [562]
§03 Fifty-six Mill’s Methods and Science [572]
3. Probability
§01 Fifty-seven Theories of Probability [585]
§02 Fifty-eight The Probability Calculus [589]
4. Statistical Reasoning
§01 Fifty-nine Evaluating Statistics [604]
§02 Sixty Samples [605]
§03 Sixty-one The Meaning of “Average� [609]
§04 Sixty-two Dispersion [611]
§05 Sixty-three Graphs and Pictograms [616]
§06 Sixty-four Percentages [619]
5. Hypothetical/Scientific Reasoning
§01 Sixty-five The Hypothetical Method [627]
§02 Sixty-six Hypothetical Reasoning: Four Examples from Science [630]
§03 Sixty-seven The Proof of Hypothesis [636]
§04 Sixty-eight The Tentative Acceptance of Hypothesis [639]
6. Science and Superstition
§01 Sixty-nine Distinguishing Between Science and Superstition [646]
§02 Seventy Evidentiary Support [647]
§03 Seventy-one Objectivity [652]
§04 Seventy-two Integrity [657]
§05 Seventy-three Concluding Remarks [661]
� Answers to Selected Exercises [676]
� Glossary/Index [720]
Source of Text
San Diego (University), San Diego (County), California (State), The United States of America
Authors
Patrick J. Hurley; Lori Watson
Library of Congress Control Number: 2016941673.
ISBN: 978-1-305-95809-8.
© 2018. Cengage Learning, Inc.
20 Channel Center Street, Boston, MA 62210.
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