Cause and Effect Arguments

Question 1

Typical Errors in Cause-and-Effect Logic

Answer 1

Sequencing: The fact that some event X occurred before some event Y does not necessarily indicate that event X caused event Y.
Co-Occurrence: The simultaneous occurrence of two events does not necessarily indicate that one causes the other.
Correlation does not mean Causation:

Question 2

Weakening a cause and effect argument

Answer 2

A cause & effect argument can be weakened by

1. Showing that the relationship can be reversed
2. Finding an alternative cause for the effect
3. A third variables caused both events
4. The effect doesn’t occur when the cause occurs
5. The effects occurs when the cause doesn’t occur

Question 3

Strengthening a Cause & Effect Argument

Answer 3

Strengthen Cause & Effect Arguments by:

1. Rule out alternative causes
2. Show that when cause is not present, effect does not occur
3. Show that the cause & effect CANNOT be reversed