D.Q. McInerny

This is a decent refresher on formal (and not so formal) logic, for anyone who took a logic class so many years ago. Or for those who didn't, it's a good introduction. It's modeled more or less on Strunk and White, so it's concise (maybe a bit too much), and it’s not very technical. It doesn't cover all the bases, e.g. there's nothing on truth trees, but it does a good job with the fundamentals, including the more common fallacies. Someone (maybe this author) said something to the effect that logic is the most neglected subject in US schools today and the most in need of being returned to a central place in the curriculum. If that’s not precisely true, it must be pretty close. Just look at what passes for political debate these days, and the fact that almost no one cares that candidates don’t actually use premises, don’t bother with valid arguments, don’t make rational connections, and draw conclusions that can’t possibly be supported. Sheesh .... Copies should be handed out with all birth certificates.… (mer)

This book would make an excellent textbook for any class on logic or critical thinking. It is very well set up, very informative, and never quite becomes 'boring' as these texts tend to. My reason for a lower rating is primarily due to the context in which I read it (writing a curriculum.) I read the book out of order and never quite gave it the chance it deserved.

This book, however, is excellent at teaching clear thinking, interesting, and perfect for any layperson wishing to glimpse the world of logicians without getting too technically involved.… (mer)