1.3 Philosophy

Getting Started

In this assignment, you will debate the possibilities of thinking in two directions, with deductive reasoning or inductive reasoning. This scenario is based in the discussion about the use of logic in Chapter 3 of A Christian Philosophical Journey. It will enable you to determine the difference between assuming something must be true, or probably is true. This goes right to the heart of determining whether there is one ultimate answer in good thinking (which may be elusive, even in philosophy) and a range of possible alternatives (one of which is strongly probable). How we get to our conclusions is not necessarily based on ultimate truth, but by where we start with our thinking (argumentation). This is also why faith is not a proven fact, just as fact is not a true reality. How do we find the “right answer” unless we ask the “right questions”?

Upon successful completion of this discussion, you will be able to:

· Separate deductive and inductive thinking through the use of logic.

· Avoid fallacies in thinking, writing, and speaking.

Resources

· Textbook: A Christian Philosophical Journey

· Optional resources:

· Media: Deduction: Truth and Validity

· Media: Induction: Generalizations

· Media: Induction: Evidence and Analogies

· Media: Logic in Real Life

Instructions

1. Review the rubric to make sure you understand the criteria for earning your grade.

2. Review Chapter 3 of A Christian Philosophical Journey.

3. Optional: View the following presentations that will assist you with important concepts covered in your textbook:

· Critical thinking lesson presentation on Deduction: Truth and Validity

· Critical thinking lesson presentation on Induction: Generalizations ,

· Critical thinking lesson presentation on Induction: Evidence and Analogies

· Critical thinking lesson presentation on logic in real life

4. Navigate to the threaded discussion and respond to the following:

d. Use the four-step course methodology of understanding, analysis, evaluation, and application. Write 150 to 200 words (three or four paragraphs, or at least five observations) contrasting deductive and inductive thinking.

d. Explore and assess the difference between the two types of thinking.

d. Explain where you have seen each type of thinking being used (in a profession, in a movie, in education, in a story, in a craft or piece of art, etc.)

d. You may also want to try the synthesis step by coming up with your own new paradigm for these concepts (and your own illustration).