Chapter 6: Cause and Effect Arguments

Question 1

When an author makes a Cause & Effect argument, what is the implication of their argument?

Answer 1

That there can be no alternative explanation for the observed events

Question 2

What form does the correct answer to the “cause & effect argument” type question usually take?

Answer 2

Correct answers typically show that there is no other explanation for a given effect.

Question 3

Sequencing frequently occurs with cause & effect arguments, what does it mean?

Answer 3

One can often erroneously assume that if one event consistently occurs before another event, that the former event causes the latter.

Question 4

What does co-occurrence mean and why is it important?

Answer 4

Co-occurrence means two events occur at the same time but does not necessarily mean that a cause & effect relationship exists between the two events.

Question 5

What is the difference between correlation and causation?

Answer 5

correlation is when a change in one variable accompanies a change in another

causation is when a change in one variable results in a change in another.

Question 6

What are the 5 ways to weaken a cause & effect argument?

Answer 6

1. Reverse the relationship
2. Find alternative cause for the effect
3. Find a 3rd variable that causes both events
4. No effect when Cause still occurs
5. No cause but effect still occurs.

Question 7

What are the 4 most common ways to strengthen a cause & effect argument?

Answer 7

1. Rule out alternative causes.
2. Scientifically Experiments (Control & Test groups)
3. No cause = no effect
4. Relationship cannot be reversed

Question 8

Do we have to prove a conclusion is correct to strengthen it with cause & effect arguments?

Answer 8

No.