INDUCTIVE+REASONING+SUMMARY

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 * [|Inductive reasoning.docx] **
 * induction: making a general rule from particular instances
 * inference: forming a conclusion from the information available
 * empirical: based on observation
 * reliable evidence: an observation which is repeatable

Inductive logic is the reasoning we use when we make generalizations or analogies. We use our experience, our empirical knowledge and make inferences from that information. Inductive knowledge therefore is fundamentally different from the pure reason of deductive logic which is rational and independent of any empiricism. When we use inductive reasoning, the reliability of the empirical evidence on which we base our conclusions determines the “soundness” of the argument. Inductive logic can NOT ensure absolute certainty, instead it: A) can give good reasons for a conclusion; B) contains information not in the argument

Iron expands when heated Copper expands when heated Iron and Copper are both metals Therefore all metals expand when heated
 * EXAMPLE OF INDUCTIVE REASONING**

In the example, the conclusion that all metals expand when heated is a generalisation from the observed to the unobserved. For example, in HISTORY, every human being eventually died, so with inductive reasoning I can make an **//inductive inference//** or generalisation that all human beings are mortal even though I haven’t observed them all die. SCIENTISTS make the same inductive inference that all metals expand when heated even though all metals may not have been tested. In **deductive arguments**, the major premise may depend on inductive reasoning. All men are mortal (MAJOR PREMISE – how do we know it is true?) Socrates is a man (MINOR) Socrates is mortal (CONCLUSION) ** INDUCTIVE STRENGTH ** ** An inductively strong argument is one in which the evidence, once accepted, establishes a //firm probability// that the conclusion is true. **  When judging inductive strength an argument can be considered to be strong if the level of probability established for the conclusion is high. **Three tests for soundness**
 * 1) Sufficient number of observations
 * 2) Varying circumstances
 * 3) Exceptions

EXERCISE: In every country’s capital city, there is an international school. How would you test this knowledge claim?