Formal Logic: An Introductory Textbook by John A. Mourant

Abstract

BOOK REVIEWS Formal Logic: An Introductory Textbook. By JoHN A. MoURANT. New York: Macmillan, 1963. Pp. xvi, 4~1 with index. $5.50. The Christian Wisdom Series of philosophy textbooks has published a genuinely superior volume in John A. Mourant's Formal Logic. What would seem an impossible assignment, namely, presenting the traditional logic, symbolic logic, and a very adequate section on induction in one book, has been achieved with clarity of style, ample excercises for the student, and excellent references for further reading. What is more, the author writes with such charming graciousness that he makes one realize that the richness of Aristotle's contributions are in no way impaired by the possibilities of the modem logic, and neither system should be the foe of the other. Dr. Mourant, who is a professor of philosophy at Pennsylvania State University, does not indulge in polemics but prefers to be positive throughout . Constantly he updates the traditional logic but does it in such a sympathetic way that he enhances one's respect for this great methodology. Then Professor Mourant sets forth precisely the fundamentals of the new logic. Finally, in the concluding part he expounds some of the theories old and current on induction. Covering so much matter required Professor Mourant to be succinct. Yet, in the first part he treats all the standard material of formal logic, concluding with a delightful chapter on logical fallacies. A superb essay opens the second section and explains the connections between Aristotelian logic and the modem logic and what exactly this new logic is attempting to do. The author is especially helpful in his explanations of various terminologies used and perspectives adopted in all fields of logic. Professor Mourant's work marks a reversal in the trend of many recent books on traditional logic which were aimed at demonstration or so-called material logic. One regrets that once again the apex of Aristotle's logic will fade to the background. However, since symbolic logic is the generally accepted system of the day,. our Catholic university and college students must be taught it or suffer a serious void in their philosophical training. Saint Stephen's College, Dover, Massachusetts 94 RAYMOND SMITH, 0. P. ...