If you want to conclude that a given variable has a causal relation with a…
2023
If you want to conclude that a given variable has a causal relation with a second variable, you must be able to rule out other possible causal variables. The principle of causation involved here is:
Answer: D. Internal validity rule — ConceptA causal conclusion must exclude plausible third-variable and confounding explanations. The observed effect should be attributable to the proposed…
- A.
Causal ambiguity rule
- B.
Temporal precedence rule
- C.
Covariance rule
- D.
Internal validity rule
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: D
Concept
A causal conclusion must exclude plausible third-variable and confounding explanations. The observed effect should be attributable to the proposed cause rather than to an uncontrolled factor.
Application
The stem requires ruling out other possible causal variables. That requirement tests whether alternative explanations have been controlled, which is the concern of internal validity.
Contrast
Causal ambiguity concerns uncertainty about the direction or source of causation.
Temporal precedence requires the proposed cause to occur before the effect.
Covariance requires the variables to vary together.
Internal validity examines whether the observed effect can be attributed to the proposed cause after alternative explanations are controlled.
Result
Therefore, the principle is the internal validity rule.