Logic, Proofs, Algebra, and Set Theory (MAT2410.01)

Carly Briggs

This introductory course will cover key foundations needed for more advanced mathematics; it should also be of interest to students not primarily studying mathematics. For students wanting to go on in mathematics, the topics and skills covered in this class will be fundamental in all advanced mathematics classes. In particular, this class may be used as a prerequisite for Calculus A and/or for Linear Algebra. The class should also be of interest to students of philosophy, and to anyone seeking to improve their ability to reason and form clear arguments. No background in mathematics is assumed. Topics will include symbolic logic and rules of inference; how to write mathematical proofs; the beginnings of abstract algebra, including Boolean algebras; extensions of high school polynomial algebra; and set theory, including the theory of infinite sets. There will be a brief introduction to the successes of Hilbert’s formalism program, and its limitations in Gödel’s theorems.

Prerequisites: None.
Credits: 4
T 10:00am - 11:50am; F 10:00am - 11:50am
Maximum Enrollment: 20
Course Frequency:
This course is categorized as 2000, All courses, Carly Briggs, Computer Science, Four Credit, Mathematics, Philosophy, Tuesday and/or Friday Mornings.