Final answer:
Inductive reasoning involves creating general conclusions from specific instances, which is the opposite of deductive reasoning that starts with general principles.
Step-by-step explanation:
The reasoning from a specific instance or principle to arrive at a general conclusion is called inductive reasoning. Unlike deductive reasoning, which starts with a general principle and works towards a specific instance, inductive reasoning moves from particular observations to broader generalizations. This process is essential in various disciplines, including science, where researchers observe specific instances and work towards formulating a general theory.
For instance, if a student consistently observes that people are more likely to wear coats on colder days, they may induce that there is a general tendency for people to wear coats when the temperature drops. In science, this reasoning allows predictions based on observations. The conclusion from inductive reasoning may then serve as a premise for further deductive reasoning, creating a dynamic interplay between these two methods to advance knowledge.