What is the process of drawing general conclusions from specific facts called?

The process of drawing general conclusions from specific facts is known as inductive reasoning. This reasoning approach begins with specific observations or instances and formulates broader generalizations or theories based on patterns identified within those observations. For example, if you observe that the sun has risen in the east every morning for your entire life, you might conclude that the sun always rises in the east.

Inductive reasoning is characterized by its reliance on reasoning patterns that go from specific to general, which can lead to conclusions that are likely but not necessarily definitive. This type of reasoning is fundamental in the scientific method, where researchers start with specific data or observations before deriving broader hypotheses or laws.