Independent Learning using Logic

Deduction
to predict a CONSEQUENCE using the source & known rules (this is 100% reliable)

A --> (?)

e.g.
(A) Source: Shellfish do not have scales.
(-->) Rule: Any sea creature without scales and fins is forbidden (according to Genesis).
(Z) Consequence: Ergo, Shellfish is forbidden!

Abduction
to predict the SOURCE using the outcome & known rules (note: this is not 100% reliable because there may be alternative sources to consider)

(?) --> Z

e.g.
(Z) Consequence: George said: "I love my brother-in-law".
(-->) Rule: A brother-in-law is the brother of a spouse (husband or wife)
(A) Source: Ergo, George is married.

(Note: this is not the only explanation, for example: George may be lying. However, the principle of Occams razor says that the simplest explanation is the most probable one.  Although this explanation can never be 100% reliable if there are other possibilities). 

 

Induction
to predict the RULE using the source and the outcome (note: inference does not tell you WHY a rule exists or HOW it works - only that there is a probable relationship between the source and outcome. hence it is not 100% reliable)

A (-->?) Z

e.g.
(A) Source: A man and a woman have sex
(Z) Consequence: Sometimes babies are born.
(-->) Rule:  Ergo, sex can lead to babies.

(Note: Of course, this is the most common way of producing babies - but not the only way.  exceptions include testtube babies.  Also Adam a.s. was born without a father or mother, Eve a.s. was born without a mother and Jesus a.s. was born without a father. All are examples of humans who did not follow the general rule above. Hence why abductions are not 100% reliable, only probable)