Master the basics of scientific reasoning with a clear introduction to inductive and deductive methods. This guide uses accessible explanations and concrete examples to show how evidence, logic, and method come together in science and philosophy.
Inside, you’ll find foundational ideas about induction and deduction, the structure of syllogisms, and how hypothetical and disjunctive reasoning work. The book discusses how observations and theories are connected, how to test inductive inferences, and how to evaluate different kinds of evidence. It also covers common errors and the rules that govern sound reasoning.
- Understand how inductive and deductive methods differ and how they support scientific conclusions
- Learn about syllogisms, including prosyllogism, episyllogism, and the sorites, with practical examples
- Explore hypothetical and disjunctive reasoning and their valid and invalid forms
- See how evidence, time, and reasoning interact in real-world science, such as the discussion of evolution
Ideal for readers seeking a grounded, accessible entry to logic and the scientific method, and for anyone who wants to sharpen their reasoning and evaluation of evidence.