INI
Logical Reasoning Methods - INI
This resource explains the three reasoning methods that constitute logical thinking: deduction, induction, and abduction. Deduction derives specific conclusions from general principles, induction derives general laws from individual observations, and abduction infers the most plausible causes or hypotheses from observed results. These reasoning methods play crucial roles in problem-solving, decision-making, and innovation creation.
logical thinking
deduction
induction
abduction
reasoning
problem solving
critical thinking
[item.deduction]
code=01
slug=deduction
name=Deduction
description=A reasoning method that derives specific conclusions from general principles or laws.
certainty=High (Necessary)
direction=General → Specific
example=Major premise: All humans are mortal. Minor premise: Socrates is human. Conclusion: Therefore, Socrates is mortal.
[item.induction]
code=02
slug=induction
name=Induction
description=A reasoning method that derives general laws or conclusions from multiple individual cases or observations.
certainty=Medium (Probable)
direction=Specific → General
example=Observation: Fossils found at location A. Fossils found at location B. Fossils found at location C. Conclusion: There is a possibility that fossils are buried extensively in this area.
[item.abduction]
code=03
slug=abduction
name=Abduction
description=A reasoning method that infers the most plausible causes or hypotheses to explain observed results or facts.
certainty=Low (Hypothetical)
direction=Effect → Cause
example=Observation: Shell fossils found at location X, far from the sea. Condition: Shell fossils are usually formed in the sea. Hypothesis: Perhaps location X was at the bottom of the sea tens of thousands of years ago.
[item.analogy]
code=04
slug=analogy
name=Analogy
description=A method that infers properties of one thing from knowledge of another based on their similarities.
certainty=Low to Medium
direction=Transfer based on similarity
example=Birds fly (have wings) → Airplane design (structure with wings)