Set theory and tableaux for teaching propositional logic

TL;DR

This paper proposes a set-theoretical interpretation of semantic tableaux to enhance teaching propositional logic, linking syntax and semantics, and facilitating understanding of advanced topics like modal logic.

Contribution

It introduces a set-theoretical approach to semantic tableaux, improving pedagogical clarity for students with basic set theory knowledge.

Findings

Clarifies the operation of semantic trees for students.

Links syntactical and semantical aspects of propositional logic.

Facilitates introduction of advanced logic topics like modal logic.

Abstract

In this work we suggest the use of a set-theoretical interpretation of semantic tableaux for teaching propositional logic. If the student has previous notions of basic set theory, this approach to semantical tableaux can clarify her the way semantic trees operate, linking the syntactical and semantical sides of the process. Also, it may be useful for the introduction of more advanced topics in logic, like modal logic.