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What is Inductive Reasoning?

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Inductive reasoning is a form of logic that formulates theories based on a set of known facts. This allows for false conclusions, meaning that it can be wrong. The classic example of inductive reasoning is that because most life forms on Earth depend on liquid water for survival, water must be important to alien life forms, if they exist.
Overview: Inductive Reasoning
Function
Logic
Problem Solving
Value
Developing theories based on observations.
Direction
Bottom up, starting with confirmed observations working towards a theoretical conclusion.
Uncertainty
Allows for uncertain conclusions, i.e. seeks likely theories
Similar Techniques
Deductive Reasoning
Inference
Abductive Reasoning

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