Traditional Logic II
by Martin Cothran
Reviewed by Martha Robinson
Purchase details: Traditional Logic Book II by Martin Cothran. Paperback text ($29.95), answer key ($1.95), and DVD's ($45). Please support HomeschoolChristian.com by buying this program from our Christian Book Distributors link.
Traditional Logic Book II is a continuation of the study begun in Martin Cothran's Traditional Logic Book I. Designed for a semester's work, this book covers basic categorical syllogisms in the first three chapter and then moves into hypothetical syllogisms, the "if, then" statements that people frequently associate with logic.
This book is laid out in a manner similar to the first book. In each of the fourteen chapters, concepts are explained in a straightforward manner with appropriate examples. Important points are highlighted in larger print in the margins. Exercises for four days follow. Beginning in chapter five, a "weekly analysis assignment" is added. Students must write an essay in which they analyze an argument from a newspaper article, magazine, or book in light of the material learned that week. Nine case studies present arguments of great thinkers such as Descartes, C.S. Lewis, and Seneca and ask the students to analyze the argument and write an essay about the author and his beliefs. Chapter fifteen is a set of review exercises for the book.
Traditional Logic Book II Answer Key
The key includes answers to every exercise, completely written out for full understanding. Answers to the case studies are included in the back.
DVD Instruction Set
The author of Traditional Logic provides lectures for each chapter on the DVD set. Using a more scripted style than in the Traditional Logic I DVDs, Mr. Cothran still provides occasional stories that let viewers feel more comfortable with their abilities to learn and apply the material. The additional examples are extremely helpful as is Mr. Cothran's review of selected exercises.
Recommendation: The Traditional Logic series is outstanding. Mr. Cothran's ability to explain complex concepts in simple terms makes the study of formal logic attainable by all homeschooling families. The DVDs will increase understanding, while also relieving the nervousness that a parent may feel in teaching an unfamiliar topic. This terrific introduction to traditional logic will do much to revive true classical studies.
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 by Martin Cothran
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