12:55      Welcome and Introductions

1:00        Informal Logical Fallacies

In this session, focus on 10 common informal logical fallacies, discussing how they are formulated, how to recognize them, how to use them, and how to refuse them in legal arguments and in contract negotiations.

2:00        Break

2:10        Is That a Fact?

Classical logic is built upon premises that are presumed to be true, but what exactly is "true" and how does it differ from "fact"? A recent Pew Survey revealed that 64% of knowledgeable, savvy Americans could not distinguish properly between five factual statements and five opinion statements; the unknowledgeable, unsavvy Americans fared far worse. In this session, we examine the differences between data and facts, facts and truth, facts and evidence, claims and beliefs, beliefs and opinions, and norms and values. We use this information to help you construct more convincing, logical arguments and enhance your credibility in litigation and transactional practice, as well as in casual conversations.

3:10        Break

3:20        Classical Logical Syllogisms

Learn how to use classical logical syllogisms to construct arguments, and how to identify six formal logical fallacies that undermine your credibility and reduce your chances for success. Use this information to help construct more convincing, logical arguments and enhance your credibility in litigation and transactional practice, as well as in casual conversations.

4:20        Adjourn