induction

In obstetrics, deliberate intervention to initiate labour before it starts naturally; then it usually proceeds normally. Induction involves rupture of the fetal membranes (amniotomy) and the use of the hormone oxytocin to stimulate contractions of the womb. In biology, induction is a term used for various processes, including the production of an enzyme in response to a particular chemical in the cell, and the differentiation of cells in an embryo in response to the presence of neighbouring tissues.

In obstetrics, induction is recommended as a medical necessity where there is risk to the mother or baby in waiting for labour to begin of its own accord.

induction

In physics, an alteration in the physical properties of a body that is brought about by the influence of a field. See electromagnetic induction and magnetic induction.

induction

In philosophy, the process of observing particular instances of things in order to derive general statements and laws of nature. It is the opposite of deduction, which moves from general statements and principles to the particular.

Induction was criticized by the Scottish philosopher David Hume because it relied upon belief rather than valid reasoning. In the philosophy of science, the ‘problem of induction’ is a crucial area of debate: however much evidence there is for a proposition, there is the possibility of a future counter-instance that will invalidate the explanation. Therefore, it is argued, no scientific statement can be said to be true.

induction

In business, initial period of training during which a new worker is likely to learn about a company and how it operates as well as, perhaps, more job-specific skills.