what is the difference between inductive and deductive
Inductive reasoning and deductive reasoning are two different approaches to logic and reasoning.
Inductive reasoning involves making generalizations or reaching conclusions based on specific observations or patterns. It involves moving from specific examples or observations to a more general conclusion. It is often associated with bottom-up reasoning, where specific instances or observations are used to infer a general pattern. Inductive reasoning is probabilistic in nature, meaning that the general conclusion reached may not be absolutely certain or true, but it is likely to be true based on the available evidence. For example, if every swan observed so far is white, then inductive reasoning would conclude that all swans are likely to be white.
Deductive reasoning, on the other hand, involves reaching specific conclusions based on general principles or premises. It involves moving from general principles or premises to a specific conclusion. It is often associated with top-down reasoning, where general principles or rules are used to derive specific conclusions. Deductive reasoning is typically seen as providing certain, conclusive results, as the truth of the conclusion follows necessarily from the truth of the premises. For example, if the general principle is that all mammals have hair, and the specific premise is that dogs are mammals, then deductive reasoning would conclude that dogs have hair.
In summary, inductive reasoning involves moving from specific observations to general conclusions, while deductive reasoning involves moving from general principles to specific conclusions. Inductive reasoning is probabilistic, while deductive reasoning is certain.