Probability and Inductive Logic

In this course, we will examine the most well-known attempts to develop a theory of inductive logic, i.e., a logic which defines the (probabilistic) relations of inductive support that obtain between sentences in a formal language. In the first half of the course, we will examine, in detail, Carnap’s program in inductive logic. We will consider both the early “a prioristic” stage of Carnap’s work, in which it was held that the principles of inductive logic suffice to determine a unique methodology for inductive reasoning, as well as the subsequent weakening of these principles to allow for a continuum of inductive methods. In the second half of the course, we will examine the various philosophical objections leveled at Carnap’s program, as well as examine more recent attempts to assign probabilities to sentences in a first-order language. Readings for the course will include works by Carnap, Goodman, Putnam, Gaifman and Paris among others. (II)