Deductive Vs Inductive Vs Abductive [Reasoning in Research, Concept, Difference, Examples]

Summary

In this video, the presenter introduces reasoning in research, focusing on three common types: deduction, induction, and abduction. Deductive reasoning is a top-down approach, moving from generalizations to specifics, while inductive reasoning works from specific observations to broader generalizations. Abductive reasoning draws probable conclusions from incomplete information. The presenter uses simple examples, such as swans' color, to explain each reasoning type and concludes by encouraging viewers to share everyday examples in the comments. The video aims to provide a clear understanding of these reasoning methods in an accessible way.

Takeaways

• 🧠 Reasoning is a cognitive activity that involves using existing knowledge to draw conclusions, make predictions, or construct explanations.
• 🔍 There are three main types of reasoning: deductive, inductive, and abductive reasoning, each serving different logical approaches in research.
• 📉 Deductive reasoning is a top-down approach, starting from generalizations to specifics, and is often used in quantitative research to test hypotheses.
• 🔢 In deductive logic, if the premises are true, the conclusion must also be true, as seen in mathematical proofs and certain scientific theories.
• 📈 Inductive reasoning is a bottom-up approach, moving from specific observations to general conclusions or theories, commonly used in scientific research.
• 👀 Inductive reasoning relies on empirical data to justify hypotheses, such as observing a pattern in a small group and generalizing it to a larger context.
• 🕵️‍♂️ Abductive reasoning involves making probable conclusions based on available evidence, useful for generating hypotheses and solving problems like a detective at a crime scene.
• 🔎 Abductive reasoning starts with an observation and seeks the best explanation for it, even when not all evidence is known or visible.
• 🌐 The video provides everyday examples to illustrate each type of reasoning, such as deductive logic with the color of swans and inductive logic with people's coffee orders.
• 📚 Understanding these reasoning types is crucial for research methodology, as they dictate how we approach problem-solving and knowledge construction.

Q & A

What is reasoning and why is it important in research?

Reasoning is the process of using existing knowledge to draw conclusions, make predictions, or construct explanations. It is important in research because it helps dictate how humans respond to situations and is a cognitive activity that underlies decision-making and understanding in various aspects of life.

What are the three types of logical reasoning mentioned in the script?

The three types of logical reasoning mentioned are deductive reasoning, inductive reasoning, and abductive reasoning.

How is deductive reasoning described in the script, and what is its basic function?

Deductive reasoning is described as a top-down approach, moving from generalizations to particulars or from hypothesis to evidence. Its basic function is to evaluate hypotheses by applying well-known or generally defined theories to specific phenomena.

What is the relationship between deductive reasoning and quantitative research?

Quantitative research is most commonly linked with deductive reasoning, as it involves testing theories through data collection and analysis.

Can you provide an example of deductive reasoning from the script?

An example of deductive reasoning from the script is: if all men in Hong Kong are rich, and Adam lives in Hong Kong, then Adam is a rich man.

What is inductive reasoning and how does it differ from deductive reasoning?

Inductive reasoning moves from specific observations to general conclusions. It differs from deductive reasoning in that it starts with specific, limited observations and seeks patterns to form a hypothesis or theory, as opposed to starting with general principles.

How does the script illustrate the process of inductive reasoning?

The script illustrates inductive reasoning by observing that four out of six colleagues order the same type of coffee, leading to the conclusion that the coffee is probably tasty.

What is abductive reasoning, and how does it work?

Abductive reasoning is making a probable conclusion from what is known. It works by generating hypotheses based on available evidence, where the major premise is evident, but the minor part of evidence is unknown or hidden.

Can you provide an example of abductive reasoning from the script?

An example of abductive reasoning from the script is: if you see a hot cup of coffee on a table in a restaurant, you might conclude that the owner of the coffee is likely returning soon.

How does the script summarize the three types of reasoning with a swan example?

The script summarizes the three types of reasoning with a swan example: Deduction is knowing all swans are white and Daisy is a swan, so Daisy is white. Induction is observing Daisy, Dany, and Dante are swans and white, then concluding all swans are white. Abduction is knowing all swans are white and Daisy is white, then concluding Daisy is a swan.

What is the final call to action for viewers in the script?

The final call to action is for viewers to mention everyday examples of the three types of reasoning in the comment box if they have understood the concepts.