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The logic of causal methods in social science

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Abstract

Two kinds of causal inference rules which are widely used by social scientists are investigated. Two conceptions of causation also widely used are explicated — the INUS and probabilistic conceptions of causation. It is shown that the causal inference rules which link correlation, a kind of partial correlation, and a conception of causation areinvalid. It is concluded anew methodology is required for causal inference.

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Ellett, F.S., Ericson, D.P. The logic of causal methods in social science. Synthese 57, 67–82 (1983). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF01064068

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