Deductive reasoning is a logical process in which a conclusion is based on the concordance of multiple premises that are generally assumed to be true. Deductive reasoning is sometimes referred to as top-down logic. Show
Deductive reasoning relies on making logical premises and basing a conclusion around those premises. It does not rely on making inferences, then assuming those inferences to be true. Deductive reasoning is an important general skill for individuals of all types, because it will allow one to make an inference based on two or more pieces of information -- an inference which one can be relatively confident in. Deductive reasoning is also a propositional logic in artificial intelligence (AI). Even though, given various rules and facts, an AI could use deductive reasoning, common sense AI is still a challenge. Aristotle and deductive reasoning The Greek philosopher Aristotle, who is considered the father of deductive reasoning, wrote the following classic example: P1. All men are mortal. P2. Socrates is a man.
Aristotle’s example is called a syllogism. A syllogism uses deductive reasoning to arrive at a conclusion that is based on two or more propositions that are assumed to be true. This is also called a premise premise conclusion argument. The premises of Aristotle's logical argument -- that all men are mortal and that Socrates is a man -- are self-evidently true. Because the premises establish that Socrates is an individual in a group whose members are all mortal, the inescapable conclusion is that Socrates must likewise be mortal. To correctly counter the conclusion of this argument, one must be able to disprove one of the premises. Inductive vs. deductive reasoning While deductive reasoning proceeds from general premises to a specific conclusion, inductive reasoning proceeds from specific premises to a general conclusion. While deductive reasoning is top-down logic, inductive reasoning is sometimes referred to as bottom-up logic. Inductive reasoning relies on inferences made off of assumptions. For example, “the sun will rise tomorrow because the sun always rises in the morning.” Another example could be if a person has only ever seen white birds before, so they assume all birds are white. The conclusion of inductive reasoning is often based on the evidence given. This was last updated in October 2020 Continue Reading About deductive reasoning
Definition & Examples of Inductive Reasoning••• South_agency / Getty ImagesInductive reasoning is a type of logical thinking that involves forming generalizations based on specific incidents you've experienced, observations you've made, or facts you know to be true or false. Learn how inductive reasoning works, see examples, and compare it to deductive reasoning. What Is Inductive Reasoning?Inductive reasoning is an approach to logical thinking that involves making generalizations based on specific details. Inductive reasoning is an important critical thinking skill that many employers look for in their employees. Inductive reasoning is an example of an analytical soft skill. Unlike hard skills, which are job-specific and generally require technical training, soft skills relate to how you interact with people, social situations, and ideas. Employers need individuals who can discern patterns and use inductive reasoning to develop strategies, policies, or proposals based on those patterns. That makes inductive reasoning a useful skill to highlight in your job applications and job interviews. How Inductive Reasoning WorksWith inductive reasoning, you make observations to reach a conclusion. This skill is useful in making predictions and creating generalizations. Your conclusion may not always be true, but it should be reasonable based on the evidence. For example, you notice that customers have bought more of your product during the third quarter of the year for the past three years. Based on that information, you predict that your customers will buy more of your product during the third quarter of the coming year and you increase production to be prepared. Inductive Reasoning vs. Deductive ReasoningInductive reasoning is different from deductive reasoning. With deductive reasoning, you start with a generalization or theory and then test it by applying it to specific incidents. Deductive reasoning is using general ideas to reach a specific conclusion. Inductive reasoning uses specific ideas to reach a broad conclusion. You may have heard this explained in school as going from big to small when using deductive reasoning and going from small to big when using inductive reasoning. Scientists may use deductive reasoning to test a hypothesis in a lab. Many law enforcement, military, or corporate leaders must be able to use inductive reasoning by taking a quick sweep of a situation and making a vital, time-sensitive decision. Inductive reasoning allows individuals to accurately see the signs of something bigger at play.
Examples of Inductive ReasoningIn practice, inductive reasoning often appears invisible. You might not be aware that you’re taking in information, recognizing a potential pattern, and acting on your hypothesis. But if you’re a good problem-solver, chances are that these examples will feel familiar:
Requirements for Inductive ReasoningInductive reasoning requires several skills. To develop or improve your inductive reasoning, focus on the following skills:
Key Takeaways
Which of the following is the reasoning process that moves from a general principle to a specific conclusion quizlet?sometimes also called multiple perspectives because the author is accepting more than one position as true. deductive reasoning moves from generalized principles that are known to be true to a true and specific conclusion.
Which of the following is the reasoning process in which two similar cases are compared and it is inferred that what is true for the first case is also true for the second?Which of the following best describes analogical reasoning? An argument that compares similar cases and infers that what is true for the first case is also true for the second.
Which of the following describes the process of drawing a conclusion on the basis of evidence?inference Add to list Share. An inference is an idea or conclusion that's drawn from evidence and reasoning. An inference is an educated guess.
Which of the following are guidelines to follow when reasoning from principle quizlet?Which of the following are guidelines to follow when reasoning from principle? Prepare to support the minor premise with evidence. Determine whether the general premise will be accepted by the audience without evidence. If the general premise will not be immediately accepted, provide evidence to support it.
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