Question

In which of the following approaches, the analytical conclusions are drawn from the pre-existing themes?

• A. Inductive approach
• B. Deductive approach
• C. Hypothetical approach
• D. Facts based

Hint:

Remember the difference: {D}eductive reasoning starts with a general theory and moves {D}own to a specific conclusion. {I}nductive reasoning starts with specific observations and moves {I}nward to form a general theory.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
The question asks to identify the research approach that starts from general principles or "pre-existing themes" to arrive at specific conclusions. This involves understanding the difference between deductive and inductive reasoning.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
- Inductive approach: This approach works from specific observations to broader generalizations and theories. The process is specific $\rightarrow$ general. A researcher would collect data, analyze it for patterns, and then formulate a hypothesis or theory.
- Deductive approach: This approach works from the more general to the more specific. It starts with a theory or a "pre-existing theme," then narrows that down into more specific hypotheses that can be tested. The researcher draws conclusions by testing these hypotheses against observations. The process is general $\rightarrow$ specific. This perfectly matches the question's description.
- Hypothetical approach: A hypothesis is a part of both inductive and deductive reasoning, not an overarching approach in itself in this context. The "hypothetico-deductive" method is another name for the deductive approach.
- Facts based: All scientific approaches aim to be based on facts, so this is not a distinct type of reasoning approach.
Step 3: Final Answer:
The approach where conclusions are drawn from pre-existing themes or general theories is the deductive approach.