Inductive Reasoning and the Scientific Method - 5.5

Inductive reasoning

Reasoning from sensory observations to generalizations.

Sir Francis Bacon

Proponent of observation and experimentation for truth.

Inductionist empiricist

Values repeated confirmation of sensory observations.

Pseudoscience

Lacks good sensory observation and scientific method.

Astrology

Considered pseudoscientific for lacking empirical verification.

Scientific Patterns

Assumes future will resemble past observations.

Criticism of Inductive reasoning

Generalizations exceed observational evidence validity.

Subjective observations

Personal interpretations, not objective facts.

Hypothesis

Assumption or theory to explain phenomena.

Sensory observation

Gathering data through the senses for testing.

Karl Popper

20th century empiricist advocating falsifiability.

Scientific theories

Formulated hypotheses explaining diverse phenomena.

Refutation

Process of disproving a scientific statement.

Falsifiability

Ability to be proven false enhances reliability.

Reliable statement

Not disproven despite attempts to falsify.

Darwin's finches

Example of hypothesis tested through observation.

Generalizations

Broad conclusions drawn from specific observations.

Scientific method

Systematic approach to inquiry and experimentation.

Observation

Act of noticing and recording phenomena.

Empiricism

Knowledge through sensory experience and evidence.

Theories and laws

Conclusions based on consistent scientific observations.