A review by sofer_mahir
Logic: The Right Use of Reason in the Inquiry After Truth by Isaac Watts

4.0

Watts is a master of illustration. I was frequently struck by his excellent choices of imagery (as one should expect from a hymnist) and clear examples. He also gives good short definitions of terms, making this book as good a reference work as it is a textbook. He also treats necessary issues of epistemology (his Lockean views are a tad dated), and keeps theology always in view. This isn't a book about arguing but about learning in general. There is also quite a bit of good practical advice here for anyone seeking to become a good steward of the mind.

Parts of the book (especially the very definition-heavy portions) are pretty dry. There are also a couple of cringe-worthy places where Watts' example propositions or syllogisms are negative remarks about "negroes." I only noticed this twice. Watts also has many unnecessarily harsh criticisms for Aristotelian philosophers -- criticisms like buck shot that end up hitting more authors than just his intended targets.

Overall, a worthwhile read. I will likely revisit this one every so often.