1. Chapter 5: Inductive Generalizations
This chapter will cover
Use of controlled studies in arguments
Criteria for credibility of controlled studies
Use and misuse of expert testimony
Use of analogies in inductive generalizations

2. Research Design Steps Include:
A question: the characteristic of interest
A hypothesis: speculation about what will be discovered
A sample: the target population
Data: observations made by the researcher.
Conclusions: interpretations

3. Research Design Question and Hypothesis Question:
What is the effect of the drug Z on migraines?
Hypothesis:
Drug Z will lessen migraines caused by restricted vessels.

4. Research Design Sample Random and Representative Control Group:
subjects receiving no treatment or who receive a placebo (sugar pill)
Experimental Group: subjects exposed to a variable.

5. Research Design Conclusions
Give results and meaning of the data collected
Relationship between drug Z and migraines interpreted

6. Evaluating Research Findings
Criteria to look for
Sample size
Reliability
Alternative explanations
Statistically significant
Duplicate the results
Claim more than designed
Respected institution
Researcher bias

7. Controversy in Research Findings
Influential results
New Analysis Reasserts Video Games’ Link to Violence
Study Says Cell Phones Cause Brain Tumors – Are You Safe?

8. Skill
Read and consider original studies before making decisions based on controversial research findings.

9. Making, Evaluating, Repairing, and Refuting Arguments
Deductive argument
Check for correct form
Refuting a deductive argument:
Point out invalid reasoning
Point out untrue premises

10. Making, Evaluating, Repairing, and Refuting Arguments
Inductive argument
Check to see if it is Cogent
Check for strong evidence
Look at statistical and causal generalizations
Look for current credible sources

11. Two-Step Flow of Information
Information sources 1
Opinion Leaders Experts
Two – Step Flow
Phenomena of consulting acquaintances before we make decisions
Opinion leaders- people who are well informed often through the media 2
The Public

12. Expert Testimony Problems
Wrong field Not recognized as experts Payment Bias Limitations Contradictions

13. Reasoning by Analogy Drawing a comparison
Evidence shows that this policy works well in one or more cases; therefore, I infer that it will work well in other similar situations.

14. Chapter 5: Inductive Generalizations
Checkup
Steps in a well designed research study
What is an opinion leader
Control groups and experimental groups
Generalizations from analogies