Understanding Causality and Statistical Correlation Quiz
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Questions and Answers

Which type of evidence is considered the most important to show that event A causes event B?

  • Expert opinion
  • Statistical correlation (correct)
  • Logical reasoning
  • Anecdotal evidence
  • What is one issue with relying solely on statistical correlation to infer causation?

  • The correlation may not be real. (correct)
  • It provides concrete proof of causation.
  • It eliminates the need for further evidence.
  • It is always the most accurate method.
  • What is the danger of assuming causation based on a correlation that is found?

  • It guarantees a cause and effect relationship.
  • It can lead to stronger scientific theories.
  • It simplifies the research process.
  • It may result in false conclusions. (correct)
  • In the context of evidence evaluation, why might people incorrectly believe there is a real correlation between two events?

    <p>Confirmation bias leading to selective data interpretation</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is one notable limitation of using statistical correlation to establish causation?

    <p>It can overlook other contributing factors.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why is it essential to consider factors beyond statistical correlation when inferring causation?

    <p>To ensure robust and valid conclusions</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the Latin term used to describe the fallacy of assuming that just because event X preceded event Y, X caused Y?

    <p>Post hoc, ergo propter hoc</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In the example provided, what is the argument based on the decrease in violent crime after the implementation of longer prison sentences an example of?

    <p>Non causa pro causa</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why does the author mention that many other possible causal factors need to be considered in evaluating the decrease in violent crime?

    <p>To caution against assuming a causal connection based solely on temporal succession</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does the author suggest is the problem with assuming that longer prison sentences caused the decrease in violent crime?

    <p>It confuses correlation with causation</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which type of reasoning is most likely behind superstitions, according to the text?

    <p>Post hoc, ergo propter hoc</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What distinguishes non causa pro causa fallacy from post hoc, ergo propter hoc?

    <p>Post hoc, ergo propter hoc involves mistaking the cause for the effect</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary reason for caution when observing a correlation between two factors A and B?

    <p>The likelihood of a third factor C causing both A and B.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the fallacy of false cause primarily related to?

    <p>Dependence on imaginary causal relationships.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why is it essential to ask critical questions before concluding causality from observed correlations?

    <p>To avoid the false cause fallacy.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In what situation does the false cause fallacy typically arise?

    <p>When the conclusion depends on an assumed causal link that is likely non-existent.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should a reader or listener be able to identify in an argument suspected of committing the false cause fallacy?

    <p>An assumption that X causes Y despite lack of evidence.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why is it important to be cautious when linking two factors through a correlation?

    <p>To prevent overestimating a causal relationship due to observed correlation.</p> Signup and view all the answers

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