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For the regular weaken and strengthen questions, I am starting to get better. However, when it comes to causation, I am really confused. There is so much information to take in.
Can someone please give me some pointers?
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Yes. And, I have been improving. Thank you. I will be in contact!
@dmitriygelfand795 Great summary! That can help newbies and vets alike. @bharbin1544170 Do you have access to the curriculum?
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Bump because this rocks
Here's the framework I use:
Stimulus: A correlates with B, so A causes B (*Correlation implies causation*)
Weaken:
B causes A
C causes A and B
Relationship is a coincidence
Strengthen:
Rule out B causing A
Rule out C causing A and B
Rule out Relationship is a coincidence
Stimulus: A causes B (*Causation is referenced or used*)
Weaken:
A occurs and B does not occur
A does not occur but B does occur
Alternate cause identified (includes reversal)
Strengthen:
A occurs and B occurs
A does not occur, B does not occur
Alternate cause blocked (includes reversal)
Sound about right? Would welcome additions/suggestions!
What specifically about causation do you find yourself struggling with? As a general rule, I try to approach causation questions with skepticism, and the trusty "correlation doesn't imply causation" mantra. At times I frequently find that there may be a reversal between both components, as in the Argument contends A causes B, but rather B causes A, or an independent 3rd cause that affects both, or no relationship at all save for a correlation. It helps to get in this skeptical frame of mind. Obviously each question is different but if you continue to solve them, you'll notice yourself become more attuned to frequent argument flaws, and you'll start to anticipate the answer choices. Furthermore, if you can see examples of the cause without the effect, or the effect with the cause this may be a clear indication of the argument's purported causation to not be true. Hope this helps!