Inductive reasoning is a type of reasoning that involves moving from specific observations to a general conclusion. This process involves collecting evidence and using that evidence to make a logical guess or prediction about a broader concept.
Deductive reasoning is a type of reasoning that involves
starting with a general statement or principle and using it to reach a
specific, logical conclusion. In deductive reasoning, the truth of the
conclusion is based on the truth of the premises.
Here are some examples to illustrate the difference between
inductive and deductive reasoning:
Inductive reasoning:
- Observation:
Every time I see a bird, it has wings.
- Conclusion:
All birds have wings.
Deductive reasoning:
- Premise:
All mammals are warm-blooded.
- Premise:
Dogs are mammals.
- Conclusion:
Dogs are warm-blooded.
In both examples, the conclusion is based on
observations or premises, but the way in which the conclusion is reached is
different. In inductive reasoning, the conclusion is based on patterns or
trends that are observed, while in deductive reasoning, the conclusion follows
logically from the premises.