What is deduction and induction in scientific approach
Deduction and induction are two primary methods of reasoning used in the scientific approach:
1. Deduction: Deductive reasoning involves drawing specific conclusions from general principles or known facts. It starts with a general theory or hypothesis and uses logic to derive specific predictions or conclusions. Deductive reasoning follows a "top-down" approach, moving from general to specific information.
Example: If the theory states that all mammals have hair, and a cat is a mammal, then deductive reasoning would conclude that the cat must have hair.
2. Induction: Inductive reasoning involves drawing general conclusions based on specific observations or patterns observed in a limited number of instances. It starts with specific observations and uses them to infer general principles or theories. Inductive reasoning follows a "bottom-up" approach, moving from specific to general information.
Example: If several cats are observed having hair, then inductive reasoning would infer that all cats have hair.
Both deduction and induction play a crucial role in the scientific method. Deductive reasoning helps researchers derive specific predictions based on existing theories, while inductive reasoning helps researchers formulate new theories based on observations or patterns in data.