Traditional Logic
Introduction to Formal Logic
by Martin Cothran
Reviewed by Martha Robinson
Purchase details: Traditional Logic, Introduction to Formal Logic by Martin Cothran. $31.90 for paperback text and answer key. $45 for DVD or VHS Set. Published by Memoria Press. Please support HomeschoolChristian.com by buying this program from our Christian Book Distributors link.
Traditional Logic, Introduction to Formal Logic offers a step-by-step, systematic approach to learning traditional logic. The author recommends for logic to be studied in high school, but suggests that a student as young as seventh grade could use this program, designed to last one semester.
In his note to the teacher, Mr. Cothran discusses why to study formal logic as opposed to informal logic. Traditional Logic is a part of the language arts family of studies, while "material" logic, or informal logic, is more mathematical. Formal logic is concerned with form and structure of arguments, but informal logic focuses on the content of arguments. "Because informal logic lacks a systematic structure, some of the benefits of rigorous logic instruction (such as an orderly habit of mind) are absent from its study. Like a house, a logical mind is best built upon a solid structure." Mr. Cothran also addresses the appeal of logic to Christian students. "Traditional logic trains the mind to respect truth, and indeed assumes a Christian view of truth throughout, which is one of the reasons it appealed to the Medieval schoolmen."
Written for a cottage school (similar to a homeschool co-op) situation, the book is set in a format for the student to read or be taught the lesson and then do related exercises for four days. It is a visually appealing text. The wide margins contain an important definition or quotation from that page. In the current printing, the margin notes are in blue, further setting them off from the black text. Terms to know are shown in bold italics, and subsections are clearly marked to make it easier to break up the topics into easier-to-learn small pieces. A summary appears at the end of each chapter prior to the exercises.
After a short introductory lesson entitled "What is Logic?" the book is divided into three sections: simple apprehension (term), judgment (proposition), and deductive inference (syllogism).
The simple apprehension section, referred to by the author as "the most abstract" but frequently the most enjoyable chapters, defines simple apprehension and breaks down the properties of simple apprehension (mental act) and term (its verbal expression.) The next six chapters form the judgment section in which propositions, the verbal expression of judgment, are explained in detail. The four statements of logic (using the Latin terms affirmo and nego) are discussed along with contradictory and contrary statements, subcontraries and subalterns, etc. Diagrams and examples are used throughout. The final section on syllogism, or deductive inference, first defines syllogism and then works through the many rules associated with it. Formal fallacies, violations of the rules of syllogisms, are also covered in this section. The book ends with a review section which is a thorough but concise summary of everything taught in the course. The final exercises take the student back through the entire book.
The answer key is a paperback book that has the answers only, rather than reproducing the question page with the answers. The cover on the current printing matches the student book cover.
The Traditional Logic Video Set shows the author of lecturing in a style reminiscent of a college professor. As with many instructors, Martin Cothran looks rather uncomfortable in front of the camera during the early chapters, but soon warms up to a more animated and relaxed style. Mr. Cothran hits the high points from the text and expounds on the important concepts with many additional examples. In the introductory lecture, he emphasizes that traditional logic is a language arts topic and clearly differentiates formal and informal logic. Throughout the program, computer graphics appear in the form of printable slides to show key points and Venn diagrams to illustrate relationships of premises. The instructor briefly discusses a few of the daily exercises in each chapter, but leaves most for the student to do on his own. Mr. Cothran refers several times to how this program fits in with the next one in the series, Traditional Logic II, and mentions the availability of a video set for it. The video ends with chapter thirteen and leaves the review chapter for textbook work only.
Recommendation: Traditional Logic is an organized, systematic approach that shows that the author indeed practices what he preaches -- logic. The curriculum addresses a subject unfamiliar to many in a straightforward, understandable way. The wide margins and visually appealing format of the student book keep the reader from becoming overwhelmed, and the exercises reduce intimidation by providing plenty of reinforcement. No preparation is required to teach this course.
With verbal explanations, diagrams, and additional examples, the Traditional Logic video set enhances, but does not replace, the text. Mr. Cothrans lectures show his depth of knowledge and interest in the topic; yet, they show his human side, too, as he presents in the easy style of a teacher who has taught this many times before. Formal logic is not a difficult topic, but it is unfamiliar to many and requires much thought. Using a technique of skimming the chapter, watching the video, and then reading the chapter in depth, a student is sure to retain the material. The videos will be beneficial for the parent to work ahead of or with the student. At under $4 per chapter to invest in the videos, busy homeschooling parents will find a big pay-off in greater comprehension and ease of teaching.
Organized and step-by-step are the impressions left after reviewing Traditional Logic. An understanding of basic formal logic should be within reach of all students and their parents with the use of this program.
HomeschoolChristian.com resources related to this review:
HomeschoolChristian.com's Classical Education Section
Interview with Cheryl Lowe of Memoria Press
Review of Introductory Logic by Douglas Wilson and James Nance
Review of Introductory Logic Videos
Review of Logic I, Tools for Thinking by Norman Birkett
Review of Material Logic by Martin Cothran
Review of Traditional Logic II by Martin Cothran
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