Causal Arguments

1
Causal Arguments

• X causes/does not cause Y
• (often linked to proposal arguments need to
  systematically explore the causes of a problem
  and predict and weigh the consequences of
  alternative solutions (W.A. 229)

2
Problems of Causality

• forced vs. motivated (W.A., 230)
• recurring phenomena or trends
• one-time occurrence
• oversimplified cause
• universal qualifier (all) vs. existential
  qualifier (some)
• immediate vs. remote causes
• contributing causes conditions that lead to a
  precipitating cause (the trigger)
• constraints negative cause that limits choices
  possibilities (W.A., 241)

3
Methods

• Causal mechanism explained
• Inductive reasoning can lead to causal link
  (pattern recognition)
• informal induction
• scientific experimentation
• correlation
• Analogy or Precedent

4
Resemblance Arguments (X is/is not like Y

• Arguments by analogy
• undeveloped
• extended
• Arguments by precedent