answers1: Inductive reasoning, also known as induction or inductive
logic, is a kind of reasoning that constructs or evaluates inductive
arguments. It is commonly construed as a form of reasoning that makes
generalizations based on individual instances. In this sense it is
often contrasted with deductive reasoning. <br>
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However, philosophically the definition is much more nuanced than
simple progression from particular / individual instances to wider
generalizations. Rather, the premises of an inductive logical argument
indicate some degree of support (inductive probability) for the
conclusion but do not entail it; that is, they suggest truth but do
not ensure it. In this manner, there is the possibility of moving from
generalizations to individual instances. <br>
90% of humans are right-handed. <br>
Joe is a human <br>
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Therefore, Joe is right-handed. <br>
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Induction is employed, for example, in the following argument: <br>
Every life form we know of depends on liquid water to exist. <br>
All life depends on liquid water to exist. <br>
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Inductive reasoning allows for the possibility that the conclusion is
false, even where all of the premises are true.[1] For example: <br>
All of the swans we have seen are white. <br>
All swans are white. <br>
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Note that this definition of inductive reasoning excludes mathematical
induction, which is considered to be a form of deductive reasoning.
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Though many dictionaries define inductive reasoning as reasoning that
derives general principles from specific observations, this usage is
outdated.[2] <br>
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Deductive reasoning, also called deductive logic, is reasoning which
constructs or evaluates deductive arguments. Deductive arguments are
attempts to show that a conclusion necessarily follows from a set of
premises or hypotheses. A deductive argument is valid if the
conclusion does follow necessarily from the premises, i.e., if the
conclusion must be true provided that the premises are true. A
deductive argument is sound if it is valid and its premises are true.
Deductive arguments are valid or invalid, sound or unsound, but are
never false nor true. Deductive reasoning is a method of gaining
knowledge. An example of a deductive argument: <br>
All men are mortal <br>
Socrates is a man <br>
Therefore, Socrates is mortal <br>
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The first premise states that all objects classified as "men" have the
attribute "mortal". The second premise states that "Socrates" is
classified as a man – a member of the set "men". The conclusion states
that "Socrates" must be mortal because he inherits this attribute from
his classification as a man. <br>
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answers2: Inductive style uses observations of patterns and makes
conclusions based on the same pattern continuing. Deductive style
uses known facts to make conclusions.
