Difference Between Inductive And Deductive Reasoning
The main difference between inductive and deductive reasoning is the direction of the inference. Inductive reasoning moves from specific observations to a general conclusion, while deductive reasoning moves from a general rule to a specific conclusion.
Also learn Examples of Deductive Reasoning & Examples of Inductive Reasoning
Inductive vs Deductive Reasoning
Here are the main differences between Inductive And Deductive Reasoning:
Inductive Reasoning | Deductive Reasoning |
---|---|
Moves from specific observations to a general conclusion. | Moves from a general rule to a specific conclusion. |
The conclusion is probable, not certain. | The conclusion is certain if the premises are true. |
Often used in science to make generalizations. | Often used in mathematics and logic to prove theorems. |
Comparison of Examples of Inductive And Deductive Reasoning
Inductive Reasoning
- Premise: Every swan I have seen is white.
- Conclusion: Therefore, all swans are white.
This is an example of inductive reasoning because it moves from specific observations (all the swans I have seen are white) to a general conclusion (all swans are white).
The conclusion is probable, not certain, because it is possible that I have not seen all the swans in the world.
Deductive Reasoning
- Premise: All triangles have three sides.
- Premise: This shape has three sides.
- Conclusion: Therefore, this shape is a triangle.
This is an example of deductive reasoning because it moves from a general rule (all triangles have three sides) to a specific conclusion (this shape is a triangle).
The conclusion is certain because it follows logically from the premises.
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