Induction as a Method of Scientific Cognition: Six Types of Induction

The paper examines six types of induction used in scientific cognition: enumerative (complete and incomplete), eliminative, induction as reverse deduction, mathematical, as a degree of empirical confirmation of scientific laws and theories, and as a degree of formal-logical dependence of some statements on others. The possibilities and restrictions of each type of induction are described both to obtain new knowledge and justify the existing one. All types of induction, except for induction as a degree of formal-logical dependence of some statements on others, have a heuristic character and are actively being used in scientific cognition to construct and justify various units of scientific knowledge (facts, laws, theories). The position that induction justification should lie not in proof of validity of the scientific knowledge obtained with its help, but in reasoning its usefulness in assessing objective reality and practical activities aimed at its transformation, is substantiated.

EDN ASSMOG

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