METHODS OF PHILOSOPHY

LOGIC (Tool for Reasoning)

 branch of philosophy that talks about the

principles underlying correct thinking
 centered in the analysis and construction
of arguments
 to be rational, you have to suspend your
beliefs and judgments until facts are
gathered and considered
Types of Reasoning
INDUCTIVE REASONING

 from specific to general

 based on specific "limited" observations,
then, goes to conclusion
Ex. Every dog I meet is friendly. Dogs are
normally friendly.
I see fireflies in my backyard every
summer. This summer, I will see the fireflies
again.
DEDUCTIVE REASONING

 from general to specific

 based on generic "theory", then, goes to
specific observations
Ex. ALL spiders have eight legs. Tarantula
is a spider. Tarantulas have eight legs.
ALL bald men are grandfathers. Patrick
is a bald man. Patrick is a grandfather.