Induction and the scientific method
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Question
Deductive reasoning?
Answer
From a general rule to a specific case; if the premises are true the conclusion must be true — but it adds nothing new.
Question
Inductive reasoning?
Answer
From observed cases to a general law about all cases; it discovers things but the conclusion is only likely, never guaranteed.
Question
Why does science rely on induction?
Answer
It watches particular events and leaps to universal laws — that leap is how observation and experiment become scientific laws.
Question
Hume's problem of induction?
Answer
Nothing proves the future will resemble the past without already assuming it — so induction rests on habit, not proof.
Question
Why can't 'induction works' justify induction?
Answer
'It worked before, so it'll work again' is itself an inductive leap — so the defence argues in a circle.
Question
How is Popper a response to Hume?
Answer
Popper drops confirmation and rebuilds science on falsification, which needs only deduction — one counter-example kills a law.
Question
What does Paper 1 Section B ask?
Answer
An essay on an optional theme: explore more than one view on a claim, weigh them, and reach a reasoned conclusion [25].
Question
The 5-step essay method?
Answer
Find the issue → View 1 → View 2 (test View 1) → weigh them → reasoned conclusion, linking back to the claim.
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Full study notes for Induction and the scientific method
Topic 6.1 hub
Nature and methodologies of science
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