In: Psychology
Explain inductive arguments and their importance to the field of science.Next, demonstrate the problem of induction as presented by David Hume.This must include a discussion of the principle of the uniformity of nature.Why is this problematic for the field of science?Can science overcome this problem Why or why not?
Inductive reasoning is very much important in the field of science because it involves logical arguments. It incorporates concepts of generalizations based on scientific observations. Such types of reasoning and arguments are mostly used for making various hypothesis.
It also assists in development of various scientific theories. Different different patterns remain the base of inductive reasoning. Those patterns form the base of logical reasoning. Inductive reasoning also helps us in determining and predicting the next step of the sequence.
David Hume claimed the fact that inductive reasoning may lead us in a state of confusion. It may also lead to a state of dilemma because we can not be fully assured about our beliefs. It can be understood through an example.
Suppose there are two boys and their grandfathers are bald. We know that baldness is common in old age. If we start trusting the pattern that all the grandfathers will be bald, then this may lead to a wrong information. We need to test our beliefs through minute and detailed observations.
We need to testify our statements through various practical experiments. We need to identify the areas in which the patterns are followed without any doubts. For example, laws of physics will be be same in every condition. When we become able to make a distinguish among reliable and non reliable incidents then only better predictions can be made with the involvement of critical thinking and appropriate reasoning.