Science of Deduction: logical assumptions

It is a capital mistake to theorize before one has data. Insensibly one begins to twist facts to suit theories, instead of theories to suit facts.

• Sir Arthur Conan Doyle

Many of you may have guessed that I will be talking about Sherlock Holmes. That’s both true and false. I will be discussing the science behind deductions, which not only made many detective characters famous but also is a great sector of interest.

So, what is the science of deduction?

The scientific method uses deduction to test hypotheses and theories. “In deductive inference, we hold a theory and based on it we predict its consequences. … A common form of deductive reasoning is the syllogism, in which two statements — a major premise and a minor premise — reach a logical conclusion.

The science of deduction is introduced to us by novels. We can see this particular skill in The Murders in the Rue Morgue by Edgar Allen Poe. We find that the main character, Auguste Dupin goes to different conclusions by logically judging from the clues. This art was later discovered in the legendary character created by Sir Arthur Conan, Sherlock. This character not only promoted the science of deduction but also changed the…