Inductive Arguments Flashcards
What is an inductive argument?
An inductive argument is a type of reasoning that involves drawing general conclusions from specific observations or instances.
True or False: Inductive arguments guarantee their conclusions.
False
Fill in the blank: Inductive reasoning often leads to __________ conclusions.
probable
Which of the following is an example of an inductive argument? A) All swans are white. B) The sun has risen every day in recorded history, so it will rise tomorrow.
B) The sun has risen every day in recorded history, so it will rise tomorrow.
What is the main difference between inductive and deductive arguments?
Inductive arguments provide probable conclusions based on specific instances, while deductive arguments provide certain conclusions based on general premises.
Provide an example of a weak inductive argument.
Most of the swans I have seen are white, so all swans must be white.
True or False: Inductive arguments can be evaluated for strength.
True
What is a common use of inductive reasoning in scientific research?
Formulating hypotheses based on observed data.
Fill in the blank: Inductive arguments often rely on __________ evidence.
empirical
Identify the type of reasoning: ‘Every time I eat peanuts, I feel sick. Therefore, I might be allergic to peanuts.’
Inductive reasoning
What is a strong inductive argument?
An inductive argument that has a high degree of support for its conclusion based on the evidence presented.
True or False: Inductive arguments can lead to generalizations.
True
Which of the following is not an example of inductive reasoning? A) The last five times I visited the park, it was crowded. B) If it rains, the ground will be wet.
B) If it rains, the ground will be wet.
Fill in the blank: In inductive reasoning, a conclusion is __________ based on premises.
suggested
What is an example of a strong inductive argument?
The majority of my friends who have taken the class found it helpful, so it is likely that the class is beneficial.
True or False: Inductive arguments are always valid.
False
What is the importance of sample size in inductive arguments?
A larger sample size can lead to stronger conclusions as it reduces the impact of anomalies.
Identify the reasoning: ‘After observing that all the observed crows are black, one concludes that all crows are black.’
Inductive reasoning
What is a common pitfall of inductive reasoning?
Overgeneralization from a small sample size.
Fill in the blank: Inductive arguments are often used in __________ and everyday decision making.
statistics
What is the role of evidence in inductive arguments?
Evidence provides the basis for the probability of the conclusion.
True or False: Inductive arguments can be used to predict future events.
True
Provide an example of an inductive argument related to weather.
It has rained every July for the past ten years, so it will likely rain this July.
What term describes an inductive argument that is weak due to insufficient evidence?
Weak inductive argument
