Essay On Induction And Deductive Reasoning

Often times lines become blurred regarding inductions and deductive reasoning as they apply to forensic sciences. Inductions are described by Thornton (1997b, p. 13) as an inference that is derived by specific observations to a generalization, or an assumption that may not always be valid. On the other hand, a deductive reasoning is defined as a forensics-evidence-based, process-oriented method of investigative reasoning based off of the behavioral patterns of a particular offender (Turvey, 1999). Historically, forensic scientists have failed to recognize the importance of inductions and deductive reasoning as a critical process in conducting investigations. Thus resulting in a hypothesis being falsely categorized as a deductive conclusion; when in fact it remains nothing more than a statement until supported by follow on testing (Thornton & Kirk, 1997).

As we see in the case of Betty Lou Jensen and David Arthur Faraday, believed to be the first victims of the Zodiac killer, one may make the induction or inference that the prime suspect in the young couple’s murder is likely the individual driving the white Chevy; who was reportedly involved in
Deductive reasoning based off of the behavioral patterns carried out by the linked individual could then highlight the individual as a prime suspect in the Jensen and Faraday murders. From that point, further investigating may find alternative physical evidence linking the owner of the white Chevy to the crime scene, possibly a palm or fingerprint of our suspect could be found on Faraday's Rambler station wagon as David’s wounds place the murderer in close range to the