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Analogical Reasoning
Disciplines > Argument > Types of reasoning > Analogical Reasoning Description | Example | Discussion | See also
DescriptionA is like B. M is in A. N is in B. So M is like N. In analogical reasoning, an analogy for a given thing or situation is found, where the analogy is like the given thing in some way. Other attributes of the analogical situation are then taken to also represent other attributes of the given thing. To use an analogy:
ExampleThis company is like a racehorse. It's run fast and won the race, and now it needs feed and rest for a while. Today is like a day in paradise. We don't need an umbrella. Dating is like flying. At some point, your feet are going to leave the ground. DiscussionOur brains work by patterns and association -- if a perception fits roughly into an existing pattern, then the existing pattern may be taken as definitive. For example, we see a half-hidden person and 'recognize' them as someone we know. We also use similarity in our thinking, where even distant fields may be used to help understand a given concept or situation. Although this can lead to fallacious associations, it can also be very helpful in extending understanding. See also
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Main sections: | Disciplines | Techniques | Principles | Explanations | Theories | |
Other sections: | Blog! | Quotes | Guest articles | Analysis | Books | Help | |
More pages: | Contact | Caveat | About | Students | Webmasters | Awards | Guestbook | Feedback | Sitemap | Changes | |
Settings: | Computer layout | Mobile layout | Small font | Medium font | Large font | Translate | |
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