Final answer:
The statement is an example of deductive reasoning, which starts with a general theory and applies it to reach a specific conclusion. This type of reasoning in the context provided is flawed, as it doesn't consider other insects with stingers.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement "All wasps have stingers. Therefore, the thing that stung me was a wasp" is an example of deductive reasoning. Deductive reasoning begins with a generalization or a general theory and arrives at a specific conclusion based on the observed information or premises. However, this reasoning is potentially flawed if the initial premise is not exclusive (since other insects also have stingers, such as bees).
In the example given by the student, the reasoning goes from a general principle that all wasps have stingers to a specific instance where a sting is attributed to a wasp. However, it fails to consider that other creatures also have stingers and could have caused the sting. This logic error is known as a hasty generalization. Deductive reasoning should not be confused with inductive reasoning, which works in the opposite direction—from specific observations to broad generalizations.