Deductive logic is a method of reasoning that starts with general principles or premises and draws specific conclusions from them. It operates on the idea that if the premises are true, the conclusion must also be true. For example, if we know that all humans are mortal and that Socrates is a human, we can deduce that Socrates is mortal. This type of logic is often used in mathematics and philosophy to establish valid arguments. It contrasts with inductive logic, which involves making generalizations based on specific observations. Deductive reasoning is valued for its clarity and precision in arriving at conclusions.