The main difference between assumption and inference is that we make assumptions without any evidence or facts, while we make inference based on facts and evidence.
Assumption and inference are two concepts we encounter in logical reasoning. An assumption is something we usually take for granted or presuppose while inference is a conclusion you draw depending on your observations.
Key Areas Covered
1. What is an Assumption
– Definition, Features, Examples
2. What is an Inference
– Definition, Features, Examples
3. Difference Between Assumption and Inference
– Comparison of Key Differences
Key Terms
Assumption, Inference, Logical Reasoning, Tests
What is an Assumption
An assumption is something we usually take for granted or presuppose. It may be something we have already learnt and do not question. It can also be a part of our beliefs. We always assume our beliefs to be true and use them to interpret the world around us. For example, if you believe that it’s dangerous to go out alone at night in Asian cities, and if you are in Colombo, you can infer that it’s dangerous to go out for a walk at night. However, this is only your belief. In other words, you have based this assumption on your belief. If the belief is a sound one, then your assumption can also be a sound one. Therefore, assumptions can be justified or unjustified, depending on your reason for forming them.
In logical reasoning, an assumption is an unstated link in the chain of evidence and conclusion. To find the assumption, you have to find the gap in an argument and filling it.
What is an Inference
An inference is a conclusion you draw depending on your observations. Making an inference means arriving at a conclusion after logically analyzing the available evidence and facts. We can also explain it as a logical interpretation or explanation of your observations. For example, you observe a rainbow in the sky and reach the inference that it’s going to rain soon. Similarly, imagine a situation where you are talking with your friend, you can observe the change in his tone, mood and body language and infer what he is feeling. Inference can also be made from the observations, evidence or facts that are gathered by someone else.
However, inferences are not always accurate. Sometimes, the way you interpret your observations may be illogical or inaccurate. For example, you might observe smoke rising from your neighbour’s house and infer that the house is on fire, but in reality, the smoke might be from a huge bonfire your neighbour has made in his garden. Sometimes, the observations themselves can be inaccurate. A mirage is a good example of this phenomenon.
Furthermore, in logical reasoning, an inference is the process of deriving the strict logical consequences of assumed premises.
Difference Between Assumption and Inference
Definition
An assumption is something we usually take for granted or presuppose while inference is a conclusion you draw depending on your observations.
Facts and Evidence
Moreover, we make assumptions without any evidence or facts, while we make inference based on facts and evidence.
In a Test Question
In a test question, you can always logically deduct an inference from the given information, but it is difficult to logically deduct assumptions from the given information.
Conclusion
An assumption is something we usually take for granted or presuppose while inference is a conclusion you draw depending on your observations. The main difference between assumption and inference is that we make assumptions without any evidence or facts, while we make assumptions based on facts and evidence.
Image Courtesy:
1. “1452823” by Mohammad Hassan (CC0) via Pixabay
Leave a Reply