Causation, Evidence, and Inference

This insightful work examines the relationship between evidence, concepts, and causal inquiry in science, as explored in Causation, Evidence, and Inference.

In Causation, Evidence, and Inference, Reiss presents a compelling argument for the importance of aligning evidence, concepts, and purposes in causal investigations across various scientific disciplines. The book delves into the multitude of techniques employed by scientists to tackle causal questions, including controlled experiments, randomized trials, and statistical methods. Reiss emphasizes that understanding how these methods interrelate is crucial for effective causal inquiry.

A key point made in Causation, Evidence, and Inference is the absence of a universal 'gold standard' for resolving causal questions. Instead, Reiss posits that different methods of inference are only effective when considered in relation to specific interpretations of causality. Each interpretation serves distinct purposes, such as prediction, explanation, or policy analysis, highlighting the nuanced nature of causal inquiry.

The book's main objective is to investigate the metaphysical and methodological implications of this perspective. Through a series of case studies drawn from both the natural and social sciences, Reiss illustrates the practical applications of his arguments. By doing so, he encourages readers to reconsider how they approach causal questions, ultimately fostering a deeper understanding of the interplay between evidence and inference in scientific practice.