Question

Describe deductive and inductive reasoning. What are some key differences between the two?

Answer 1

Both deduction and induction are often referred to as the type of inference, which basically means to reach to a conclusion based on evidence and reasoning.

1. Deductive reasoning or approach is aimed and testing theory. It works from general to more specific.

E.g. All Dolphins are mammals, all mammals have kidneys, therefore, all Dolphins have kidneys.

All numbers ending in 0 or 5 are divisible by 5. The number 35 ends with a 5, so it must be divisible by 5.

2. Inductive reasoning or approach is concerned with the generation of new theory emerging from the data. It moves from specific to broader generalization and theories.

E.g. The population of New York has risen steadily for the past 40years . It is logical to predict that population of New York will also rise next year..

Upto now , the sun rose everyday, therefore, tomorrow the sun will rise.