A simplified logic of causal inference.
This paper provides a simplified method for evaluating the evidence in favour of a causal claim. It analyses the evidence bearing upon such a claim in terms of two questions: Do the putative cause and effect covary, and can alternative non-causal explanations of the relationship be ruled out? The different research designs for assessing covariation are outlined, as are the ways in which these designs permit a researcher to decide between alternative explanations of the relationship.
Hall
W
W
School of Psychiatry, University of New South Wales, Psychiatry Unit, Prince of Wales Hospital, Randwick.
D003866:Depressive Disorder / Q000523:psychology; D006801:Humans; D008016:Life Change Events; D001523:Mental Disorders / Q000523:psychology*; D012307:Risk Factors; D012565:Schizophrenic Psychology; D012931:Social Environment