Causation

An accessible overview of the contemporary philosophy of causation, introducing the central theories, concepts and key tools.

Luke Fenton-Glynn (Author)

9781108706636, Cambridge University Press

Paperback / softback, published 15 July 2021

75 pages
23 x 15 x 0.6 cm, 0.16 kg

This Element provides an accessible introduction to the contemporary philosophy of causation. It introduces the reader to central concepts and distinctions (type vs token causation, probabilistic vs deterministic causation, difference-making, interventions, overdetermination, pre-emption) and to key tools (structural equations, graphs, probabilistic causal models) drawn upon in the contemporary debate. The aim is to fuel the reader's interest in causation, and to equip them with the resources to contribute to the debate themselves. The discussion is historically informed and outward-looking. 'Historically informed' in that concise accounts of key historical contributions to the understanding of causation set the stage for an examination of the latest research. 'Outward looking' in that illustrations are provided of how the philosophy of causation relates to issues in the sciences, law, and elsewhere. The aim is to show why the study of causation is of critical importance, besides being fascinating in its own right.

1. Introduction
2. Regularity Theories of Causation
3. Interlude: Some Important Background
4. Counterfactual Theories of Causation
5. Probabilistic Causation
6. Conclusion.

Subject Areas: History of science [PDX], Philosophy of science [PDA]