A psychologist tracking rapid eye movements in sleeping subjects, waking them to log reported dreams, and linking dreams to REM sleep bases this conclusion on:
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Answer: C. deduction from direct observation
Explanation
Reaching conclusions by drawing logical inferences from systematically gathered observational data is standard science. The psychologist observes eye movements and awakenings, then deduces that dreaming occurs during REM sleep. This process bridges raw empirical data collection with broader theoretical conclusions about sleep stages. The scientific method requires researchers to move from observable facts to logical, testable deductions. Rapid eye movement sleep was discovered by monitoring physiological indicators using electroencephalograph machines. Logical deduction ensures that scientific claims remain anchored in verifiable empirical observations rather than guesses.
Astronomers observe light spectra from distant stars and deduce their chemical composition and velocity. Clinical researchers watch patient recovery rates and deduce the effectiveness of a novel medical treatment. Critical thinking skills help students distinguish between unsupported speculation and valid scientific deductions. Pure speculation involves guessing without any supporting evidence, unlike drawing inferences from systematic observations. Direct observation is the data collection method used here, but the conclusion itself is a logical deduction. Prior prediction happens before an experiment, whereas this scenario describes drawing conclusions after gathering data.
- Subject
- Psychology
- Category
- Psychology
- Topic
- —
- Difficulty
- medium
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