Difference between inductive and deductive method
Introduction
Worldwide presence of research, there are two important forms of reasoning: the inductive method and the deductive method. Both methods have significant differences and are used in various disciplines.
Inductive Method
The inductive method implies a logic that moves from the particular to the general, that is, it starts from a series of specific observations to, from them, establish a general law. This method involves observation, data collection, and interpretation of recurring patterns to reach a general conclusion.
Examples:
- Notice that every time the sun sets, the sky turns reddish.
- Deduce that the red and orange colors in the sky at sunset are caused by refraction of the light solar.
- Conclude that the refraction of sunlight is the cause of the color change in the sky at dusk.
Deductive method
The deductive method implies a logic that moves from the general to the particular, that is, it starts from a general law to reach a specific conclusion. This method involves formulating a hypothesis, collecting data to test the hypothesis, and reaching a specific conclusion.
Examples:
- Formulate the hypothesis that “all human beings are mortal.”
- Collect data on people who have died and establish that they were all human beings.
- Conclude that the hypothesis that “all human beings are mortal” is true.
Differences between the inductive and deductive method
The Main differences between both methods are:
- The inductive method begins with observing specific details and reaches a general conclusion, while the deductive method begins with a formulated general law and reaches a specific conclusion.
- The inductive method is used to learn through observation and interpretation of patterns, while the deductive method is used to test a previously formulated hypothesis.
- The inductive method is the most used in social sciences and humanities, while the deductive method is mainly used in mathematics, physics and other natural sciences.
Conclusion
In summary, both methods are empirically based and essential in scientific research. The difference between them lies in the way in which a conclusion is reached, either starting from the particular to reach the general or starting from a general law to reach a specific conclusion. It is important to choose the appropriate method for the discipline and the specific problem at hand.