Logic

Logic is not just a tool for clear and precise thinking; it is the key to understanding the nature of reasoning and knowledge. In an era of rapid technological advancements, from artificial intelligence to data science, a strong foundation in logic can unlock numerous exciting career opportunities.

Introduction to the Logic Major

Logic is a discipline that studies the forms and principles of reasoning. It is an essential component of philosophy and serves as a foundation for other fields. The logic major guides students in exploring the mysteries of reasoning, learning how to think correctly about problems, construct clear arguments, and communicate effectively.

This major adheres to the philosophy of “integrity and ability, leadership potential, and a deep sense of national and global responsibility.” It aims to cultivate well-rounded elite talents with a solid theoretical foundation in logic, a core competence in precise rational thinking and analytical reasoning, interdisciplinary backgrounds in philosophy, mathematics, computer science, and psychology, and a broad perspective that combines the humanities and sciences. 

These graduates are prepared to contribute to the development of both the nation and human society.

Educational Objectives

Graduates of this major possess precise rational thinking and analytical reasoning abilities, enabling them to define, analyze, and solve theoretical and practical problems using the principles and methods of logic in various fields such as philosophy, mathematics, computer science, psychology, linguistics, cognition, law, and economics.

1. Through required university-wide courses, students develop a deep sense of national and social responsibility.

2. Through core general education courses and humanities electives, students gain a broad international perspective and strong cultural literacy.

3. Through courses such as “Introduction to Philosophy” and “Introduction to Logic,” students develop the ability to define, analyze, and solve complex problems.

4. Through courses like “Introduction to Mathematical Logic,” “Philosophical Logic,” “Analytical Writing,” and “Reading Reports,” students enhance their clear thinking, expression, and writing skills.

5. Through courses such as “Informal Logic,” “Introduction to Cognitive Science,” and “Probability and Rational Choice,” students develop the ability to identify, correct, and reflect on logical fallacies and cognitive biases.

6. Through courses such as “Naive Set Theory,” “Mathematical Analysis,” “Linear Algebra,” “Introduction to Programming,” and “Introduction to Computation Theory,” students gain the ability to generalize and abstract, transforming specific problems into general models and solving them.

7. Through all specialized courses, students cultivate a rational spirit that values facts and reason in public discourse, along with strong skills in logical and conceptual analysis, argumentation, and construction.

Graduation Requirements

Graduates of the logic major should possess the following core abilities:

1. Apply basic logical theories and knowledge to analyze and solve logical problems.

2. Conduct independent logical research.

3. Use logical methods to analyze and address practical issues.

4. Demonstrate strong communication and expression skills.

5. Possess proficient computer application skills.

Core Courses

1. General Foreign Language for Graduate Students

2. Philosophy Trends and Reviews

3. Research Methodology in Philosophy

4. Logic, Language, and Cognition

5. History of Western Logic and Selected Readings

6. Fundamentals of Modern Logic

7. Philosophical Logic

8. History of Chinese Logic and Selected Readings

9. Dialectical Logic and Creative Thinking

10. Informal Logic and Critical Thinking Logic

11. Inductive Logic and Decision-Making

12. Contemporary Frontiers and Hot Topics in Logic

13. Cognitive Logic and Modal Epistemology

14. Career Planning

15. Employment and Entrepreneurship Practice

16. Cross-Disciplinary Electives

17. Doctoral Foreign Language

18. Marxism in Contemporary China

19. Contemporary Issues in Logical Science

20. Contemporary Topics in Logical Philosophy

21. Advanced Studies in Mathematical Logic

22. Advanced Studies in Philosophical Logic

23. Advanced Studies in Scientific Logic

24. Comparative History of Logical Thought

25. Logic and Dialectics

26. History of Christianity

27. Modern Western Religious Philosophy

28. Hebrew Language (Part I)

29. Hebrew Language (Part II)

30. Biblical Hermeneutics

31. Cross-Disciplinary Electives

32. Doctoral Academic English

33. Second Foreign Language

34. Marxism and Contemporary Social Trends

35. Chinese Buddhist Studies

36. Research on Pre-Qin Philosophers

37. Research on the Relationship between Confucianism, Buddhism, and Daoism

38. Close Readings of Buddhist Texts

39. Daoist Classics Studies

40. Studies on Consciousness-Only (Yogācāra) School

41. Advanced Studies in Confucianism

42. Advanced Studies in Judaism

43. Advanced Studies in Daoism

44. Professional Foreign Language

Research Directions in the Logic Major

The primary research directions in the logic major include:

• Mathematical Logic: This area explores logical systems based on mathematics, including set theory, axiomatic systems, recursion theory, proof theory, and model theory.

• Formal Language Theory: This field studies the structure, properties, and applications of formal languages, including grammar, automata, and compiler principles.

• Computer Logic: This direction examines the application of logic in computer science, covering program verification, knowledge representation, artificial intelligence, and more.

• Non-Classical Logic: This area focuses on non-classical logical systems, such as fuzzy logic, multi-valued logic, modal logic, and others.

• Modal Logic: This branch studies logical systems for modal propositions and modal reasoning, including modal systems, modal semantics, and modal proof theory.

• Inductive Logic: This field explores logical systems for inductive reasoning, including methods of induction, probabilistic logic, and statistical reasoning.

• History of Logic: This research direction examines the historical development of logic, including ancient Greek logic, medieval logic, early modern logic, and contemporary logic.

• Philosophy of Logic: This area investigates the relationship between logic and philosophy, covering topics such as the nature of logic, logic and language, and logic and knowledge.

Students can choose their research direction based on their own interests and preferences. For example, those interested in logical systems built on mathematical foundations might focus on mathematical logic. 

Those drawn to the structure and application of formal languages may opt for formal language theory. If intrigued by the application of logic in computer science, students might select computer logic. Similarly, interests in non-classical logical systems, modal reasoning, inductive reasoning, the history of logic, or the philosophical implications of logic will guide students to the corresponding research directions.

Degree Awarded

Upon successful completion of the program, students are awarded a Bachelor’s degree in Philosophy.

Career Development

The logic major is centered around the study of concepts, propositions, reasoning, and proofs, aiming to enhance students’ logical thinking and problem-solving skills. Graduates typically find employment in areas related to investigation and analysis.

After graduation, students may work in government agencies, enterprises, research institutions, or universities, as well as in fields such as justice, information technology, and finance. They can also pursue advanced degrees through direct recommendations or entrance exams.

Among employed graduates, over 67% hold positions in key state-owned enterprises, major research institutions, top-tier universities, Fortune 500 companies, leading media outlets, and significant financial institutions.

Potential Career Paths for Logic Graduates:

• University Lecturer

• Researcher

• Software Engineer

• Systems Analyst

• Artificial Intelligence Engineer

• Logician

• Philosopher

Related Majors

• Philosophy

• Mathematics

• Computer Science

• Artificial Intelligence

Top Universities Offering Logic Programs

• Peking University

• Nankai University

• Sun Yat-sen University