Modal Logics and Philosophy

In Part 1 the reader is introduced to some standard systems of modal logic and encouraged through a series of exercises to become proficient in manipulating these logics. The emphasis is on possible world semantics for modal logics and the semantic emphasis is carried into the formal method, Jeffrey-style truth-trees. Standard truth-trees are extended in a simple and transparent way to take possible worlds into account. Part 2 systematically explores the applications of modal logic to philosophical issues such as truth, time, processes, knowledge and belief, obligation and permission. Accessible, authoritative, and assured, Modal Logics and Philosophy requires no more background than the completion of a standard introductory logic course. It will be welcomed not only by students looking for a bridge between introductory logic texts and the high-level technical literature but as a guide to, and exploration of, work at the forefront of logic and philosophy.

"Modal Logics and Philosophy has the technical precision and rigour that is sometimes sacrificed to concern with philosophical logic. A book that will stand out amongst modal logic texts." Bernard Linsky, University of Alberta "Rod Girle is the best logic teacher that I know. All those who want a non-technical introduction to modal logic and its applications, not just Rod's own students, will now be able to benefit from his outstanding pedagogic skills." Graham Priest, University of Queensland

Unlike most modal logic textbooks, which are both forbidding mathematically and short on philosophical discussion, Modal Logics and Philosophy places its emphasis firmly on showing how useful modal logic can be as a tool for formal philosophy, metaphysics, temporal reasoning, epistemics, the analysis of action and processes, and ethical reasoning. Moving beyond propositional logic and predicate logic, Rod Girle shows that modal logic offers the power to clearly articulate and explore philosophical arguments concerning possibility and necessity, concepts that are essential in our thought and usher in the notion of "possible worlds."

Rod Girle is senior lecturer in philosophy at the University of Auckland.