Philosophical and Historical Aspects of Logical Diagrams

Facilitators: Dr Francesco Bullucci and Dr Amirouche Moktefi

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Course Summary

This is an introductory course on the history and philosophy of diagrammatic logic. It will cover the historical development of logical diagrams and notations from G. W. Leibniz to modern times. Various diagrammatic systems will be sketched, including linear diagrams (J. H. Lambert), spatial diagrams (L. Euler, J. Venn), tabular diagrams (L. Carroll) and graphs (C. S. Peirce). The focus will be on the philosophical reasons and theoretical justifications that stimulated the invention and the adoption of diagrammatic systems of notation. We will also discuss the virtues of diagrams in comparison with symbolic notations as they were perceived by logicians and philosophers. The course will include study and discussion of key texts in the history of logical diagrams. Some technical aspects will also be covered.

Prerequisite Knowledge

Attendees should have basic knowledge of elementary logic. No previous knowledge on diagrammatic logics is necessary. Delegates should be interested in diagrammatic logics from a historical and philosophical perspective.

Course Outcomes

On completing the course, attendees should have a broad, historically-oriented knowledge of the principal systems of diagrammatic representation. They should also be able to start identifying gaps in knowledge and begin to be able to scope a research project in this area.

Course Materials

Venn 1881 - Historic notes

Venn 1880 - Diagrammaticrepresentation of propositions and reasonings

Leibniz - Linear diagrams 1

Leibniz - Linear diagrams 2

Lambert - Linear diagrams

Euler - Circular diagrams

Peirce - Prolegomena to an Apology for Pragmaticism