An Introduction to the Logic of the Computing Sciences: A Contemporary Look at Symbolic Logic

An Introduction to the Logic of the Computing Sciences provides an introduction to symbolic logic by creating connections with the diverse fields of philosophy, mathematics, computing sciences, law, business, popular culture, and ethics, so that students from varied backgrounds can grasp the ideas of logic. The author relates symbolic logic to computer science by introducing each logical principle by a truth table, flow chart, and algorithm. He emphasizes the connections between logic and the different subjects through over two hundred word problems that relate to the different areas. Following a strategic plan that avoids intimidating students, the author introduces each new principle one at a time with a set of twenty exercises that require the use of that principle. He introduces the next principle with exercises that require the use of the new principle and the principles previously studied, gradually building on the knowledge of the student until he or she has a thorough understanding of symbolic logic.

Richard F. Von Dohlen is Professor of Philosophy and is Assistant Dean of Academic Affairs at Lenoir-Rhyne College in Hickory, North Carolina.