Module 14. Causation

This module presents four different types of explanation: definitional explanations, compositional explanations, functional explanations, and causal explanations. A number of fallacies result from mixing up these types of explanation. It then presents methods for determining whether or not causal explanations hold, including necessary and sufficient conditions, counterfactuals, and Mill’s Methods. The importance of not mistaking causation for correlation is emphasized.

• 14.1 Review of Modules 8-13
  • 14.1.1 Review of Material Conditionals
  • 14.1.2 Review of Proving Validity
  • 14.1.3 Review of  Conditional and Indirect Proof
  • 14.1.4 Review of Extracting Arguments
  • 14.1.5 Review of Evidence
  • 14.1.6 Review of Probability
  • Submodule 14.1 Quiz
• 14.2 Types of Explanation
  • 14.2.1 What is an Explanation?
    • Explanations and Arguments
    • Four Types of Reasons Why
  • 14.2.2 Definitional Explanations
    • Definitional Explanations
    • Recognizing Non-Sufficient Conditions
    • Recognizing Necessary and Non-Necessary Conditions
    • The Genetic Fallacy
  • 14.2.3 Functional Explanations
    • Functional Explanations
    • Intentions
    • Malfunctions
    • Misattributing Intentions
    • The Fundamental Attribution Error
  • 14.2.4 Compositional Explanations
    • Taking Things Apart
    • The Fallacy of Composition
    • The Fallacy of Division
  • 14.2.5 Causal Explanations
    • Causal Explanations
    • Complexity and Context
    • Necessary and Sufficient Causal Conditions
    • Causal Generalizations
    • Causal Counterfactuals
    • Correlation and Causation
  • 14.2.6 Mill’s Methods
    • Mill’s Methods
    • Method of Agreement
    • Method of Difference
    • Joint Method of Agreement and Difference
    • Method of Concomitant Variation
    • Method of Residues
    • Discovery, Not Proof
  • Submodule 14.2 Quiz