The process of moving from general to specific reasoning in research is known as what?

The process of moving from general to specific reasoning in research is best defined as deductive reasoning. In deductive reasoning, a researcher starts with a general theory or premise and then derives specific conclusions or hypotheses that can be tested through observation or experimentation. This often involves applying a general rule or principle to a specific case to see if the outcomes align with expectations.

For instance, if a researcher knows that all humans are mortal (a general statement) and wants to determine if a specific individual, say Socrates, is mortal, they will conclude that Socrates must be mortal based on the initial premise. This method is often characterized by its structured approach, beginning with theoretical frameworks and leading into specific and testable predictions.

In contrast, the other reasoning types provided reflect different processes. Inductive reasoning involves moving from specific observations to broader generalizations, which is the reverse process. Qualitative reasoning typically refers to understanding information in a descriptive manner rather than through strict numerical measurement or deductive logic. Nomothetic reasoning pertains to the search for general laws and principles guiding research, but does not specifically denote the process of moving from general premises to specific conclusions. Thus, deductive reasoning is the most accurate term for this progression in research methodology.