What is inductively?

Inductively refers to a reasoning process where general conclusions are drawn from specific examples or observations. In other words, using inductive logic, we take individual observations and use them to build a broader understanding of a phenomenon.

For example, a scientist who observes a series of chemical reactions and discovers that each time two specific elements are combined, a certain type of reaction occurs, may use inductive reasoning to conclude that those two elements have a specific chemical property that causes that reaction to occur.

Inductive reasoning is often contrasted with deductive reasoning, which starts with a broad generalization and uses it to draw conclusions about specific instances. Inductive reasoning, on the other hand, starts with specific instances and uses them to make broader generalizations.

Inductive reasoning is commonly used in scientific investigation, as scientists often build theories and understandings of the world through a process of observing and recording specific phenomena. However, inductive arguments are generally weaker than deductive arguments since they are not based on absolute truths.