Final answer:
Reasoning from a general theory to specific instances is known as deductive reasoning, which moves from the general to the specific.
Step-by-step explanation:
The form of reasoning that begins with a general theory and arrives at a specific conclusion after observing a body of information is termed deductive reasoning. Deductive reasoning is a logical process where the pattern of thinking proceeds from the general to the specific. This is common in hypothesis-based science, where researchers start with a general premise and from it, predict specific results. On the other hand, inductive reasoning moves from specific observations to broader general principles or theories. Inductive reasoning is used to construct broad generalizations, which may then generate hypotheses tested by deductive reasoning.