Inductive vs. Deductive Analysis
Assignment 3: Inductive And Deductive Arguments
Inductive vs. Deductive Analysis
(Inductive vs. Deductive Analysis)
Inductive Analysis involves drawing generalized conclusions from specific observations. It moves from particular instances to broader generalizations. For example, if we observe that the sun has risen in the east every morning, we might inductively conclude that the sun always rises in the east. Inductive reasoning is probabilistic; the conclusions drawn are likely, but not certain, given the premises. This type of reasoning is common in scientific research, where patterns observed in data lead to hypotheses and theories. Inductive arguments can vary in strength, with conclusions that are more or less probable based on the evidence. The strength of an inductive argument depends on the number and representativeness of the observations.
Deductive Analysis, on the other hand, works from the general to the specific. It starts with a general statement or hypothesis and examines the possibilities to reach a specific, logical conclusion. If the premises are true and the logic of the argument is valid, the conclusion must be true. For example, in the classic syllogism, “All men are mortal. Socrates is a man. Therefore, Socrates is mortal,” the conclusion necessarily follows from the premises. Deductive reasoning is often used in mathematics and formal logic, where it is important to have certainty in the conclusions. Unlike inductive reasoning, deductive reasoning provides conclusive proof of its conclusions, assuming the premises are correct.
Inductive vs. Deductive Analysis
In this assignment, you will apply key concepts covered in the module readings. You will identify the component parts of arguments and differentiate between various types of arguments such as inductive and deductive. You will then construct specific, original arguments.
There are two parts to the assignment. Complete both parts. The following is a summary of the assignment tasks.
Part 1
- 1a: Identify Components of Arguments
Identify the component parts of the argument, premises and conclusion, for the passages. Where applicable, highlight key words or phrases that identify a claim as a premise or a conclusion. Part 1a has three questions. - 1b: Identify Arguments as Inductive or Deductive
Identify the arguments as inductive or deductive for given passages. Offer a brief explanation why each argument is either inductive or deductive. 1b has three questions.
Part 2
- 2a: Argument Identification and Analysis
In these longer text passages, identify the key components of each argument. For each argument, list the main conclusion and the reasons (or premises) that support the conclusion. - 2b: Constructing Original Arguments
Construct one original inductive argument. Using 75–100 words, explain why the argument is an inductive one. Then, construct one original deductive argument. Using 75–100 words, explain why the argument is a deductive one. - 2c: Finding Native Argument Examples
Find one example of an argument from contemporary media; this can be a short argument. Include or reproduce the original passage of the argument, paraphrase the conclusion(s), and identify the argument as either inductive or deductive. Using 75–100 words, explain why the argument is either inductive or deductive.
