PHIL 347 Week 5 Discussion; Inductive Generalization and Analogy

Initial Post Instructions The reasoning used in inductive generalization is based on empirical observations and the inferences we draw from such observations. As such, it is closely allied to the scientific method. It is also the method used in polls and surveys; reports of the results of these polls and surveys can heavily influence decision making in health professions and other areas of public opinion. For the initial post, address the following: • Using what you learn from the text and from research you conduct from other sources, analyze polls and surveys. o If we simply read a report of a poll, how can we know if the poll is reliable? What criteria do we use to analyze them? o What part do polls and surveys play in medical research? o Of what value are public opinion polls? • Inductive generalization is sometimes mistaken for deductive categorical reasoning. o Using what you’ve learned in your study of analogical reasoning, examine why this may happen? o What are the similarities in the two? The differences? o Where does the analogy break down? The website links provided in the Required Resources are a good starting place for your research.