An Analysis of the Theory of Inductive and Deductive Reasoning as an Extremely Beneficial Instruments in the Profession of Criminal Justice For Many Decades
What is Inductive Reasoning?
Inductive reasoning is a logical process by which people make conclusions based on data that has been observed or collected It is a form of reasoning which takes limited information, or a set of specific observations, and from it, extrapolates and makes a general conclusion. It is the form of reasoning most often used to form hypotheses or make generalizations, as well as scientific predictions.
Inductive reasoning works by taking an example or a piece of data, and then attempting to draw a conclusion based on that specific observation. This is different from deductive reasoning, which involves analyzing already accepted theories and facts and then reconstructing an argument based on that knowledge.
Inductive reasoning is often used in the sciences, particularly in experiments, to reach conclusions that can then be tested further. Essentially, a hypothesis is created based on inductive reasoning, and then tests are conducted to see whether or not that hypothesis is correct. If the hypothesis proves to be true, then it is accepted as a scientific fact.
Inductive reasoning is also used in everyday life, as people use patterns to make decisions and draw conclusions. It is an intuitive approach to problem-solving, and it is often relied upon in situations where there is no clear answer or obvious answer.
Five Good Examples of Inductive Reasoning
1. Rain follows thunderstorms: In meteorology, it is widely accepted that rain often follows thunderstorms. This is an example of inductive reasoning because there is not a guarantee that rain will do so, and it is impossible to test in all scenarios. However, based on the data that has been collected and the number of instances in which it has been observed, it is concluded that rain often follows thunderstorms.
2. Eating unhealthy food makes you feel sluggish: This is a common observation that many people have made, and is an example of inductive reasoning. Based on personal experience, people have noticed that eating unhealthy food often leads to feelings of sluggishness, and so it is concluded that eating unhealthy food makes you feel sluggish.
3. Dogs bark: This is another example of inductive reasoning. Even though it is impossible to test the statement in every single circumstance, it is concluded that dogs tend to bark because of data that has been collected from observations.
4. Getting enough sleep improves alertness: This conclusion has been drawn based on observations that people have made. People who get enough sleep tend to be more alert and energetic, and so it is concluded that getting enough sleep improves alertness.
5. Conflict is often caused by misunderstandings: This conclusion is often drawn based on observation. People often assume that conflicts are caused by misunderstandings, even though it is impossible to test in all cases. It is concluded, however, that conflict is often caused by misunderstandings based on the data that has been collected.