The uniqueness of their co-dependent relationship lies in their individual functionalities, and this is what makes them reliant on each other. Making the observation versus inference comparison is something that is very often done, as it is very easy to cross the line between observation and inference however, as often as this comparison is drawn, it is also made clear that these concepts cannot function independently of each other even though they are different from each other. This process is not entirely what one would refer to as a science as it is not backed up by facts.
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Where observation is strictly factual and has scientific backing to it and its methodology, inference is completely based on assumption and what a person can conclude from data that has already been gathered from observation. When making the comparison of observation versus inference, it is important to know that these concepts work with each other, one because of the other, however, they do not have the same functions independently. The difference between these concepts is clear even though they are very closely related and they work together. Ever so often, we find that people make the mistake of lumping the concept of observation and inference together, and this is wrong. While both of these concepts are interconnected, it does remain that they are quite distinctly different from each other and cannot be interchanged. Inference is necessary when it comes to making evaluations for different circumstances and making reliable decisions. To make a proper inference, one would need to have data from observation so it is safe to say that without adequate data collected from observation, a proper inference cannot be made. This brings us to the fact that inference is completely reliant on observation. It is the conclusion that is drawn up, it is an assumption, a guess that is made based on what one has observed. This process is not a factual one, as a matter of fact, it is more of an explanation that is given regarding the data that has been collected obviously through the process of observation. Scientifically, inference can be said to be a process whereby decisions are taken regarding data that has already been gathered. Observation requires a great deal of attention in order to get the facts and data needed.
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This process is greatly influenced by the attitude, experience, and knowledge of the observing individual and as a result of this, observations would most likely differ from individual to individual. Observation is basically the process of being watchful to gain data using one’s senses. It is a factual process where all the tools of observation are employed to give reasonable and factual results. Scientifically, observation can be said to be a process whereby data is gathered.