[Roaming through methodology. IV. Causality].
If a factor A is often followed by an event B, it may erroneously be concluded that one causes the other. Actually B may have been brought about by a factor C (the true cause), A being only an epiphenomenon of C. If factors other than C (for example D or E) can cause the same effect B, none of those factors is a necessary cause. Causes often are multiple: a single causal factor is often not sufficient for a certain effect to ensue, whereas that effect can result from a number of factors acting together (simultaneously or consecutively).
van Gijn
J
J
Academisch Ziekenhuis/Universiteit Utrecht, vakgroep Neurologie, Utrecht.
Rooijmans
H G
HG
D015984:Causality; D002986:Clinical Trials as Topic; D015331:Cohort Studies; D003627:Data Interpretation, Statistical; D016021:Epidemiologic Studies; D006801:Humans; D015233:Models, Statistical; D012107:Research Design
Dwalingen in de methodologie. IV. Causaliteit.