Answer to Question #338395 in Discrete Mathematics for Kevin

Question

Determine whether each of the following arguments is an example of inductive reasoning or deductive

reasoning.

a. All Janet Evanovich novels are worth reading. The novel To the Nines is a Janet Evanovich

novel. Thus To the Nines is worth reading.

b. I know I will win a jackpot on this slot machine in the next 10 tries, because it has not paid out

any money during the last 45 tries.

Answer 1

Deductive reasoning is a logical approach where you progress from general ideas to specific conclusions. It's often contrasted with inductive reasoning, where you start with specific observations and form general conclusions. Deductive reasoning is also called deductive logic or top-down reasoning.

Inductive reasoning is a method of drawing conclusions by going from the specific to the general. It's usually contrasted with deductive reasoning, where you go from general information to specific conclusions. Inductive reasoning is also called inductive logic or bottom-up reasoning.

a. Deductive reasoning

b. Inductive reasoning