IngentaConnect From Metaphysics to Method: Comments on Manipulability and the Ca...

Author: Cartwright, Nancy

Source: British Journal for the Philosophy of Science, Volume 57, Number 1, March 2006 , pp. 197-218(22)

Abstract:

Daniel Hausman and James Woodward claim to prove that the causal Markov condition, so important to Bayes-nets methods for causal inference, is the `flip side' of an important metaphysical fact about causation—that causes can be used to manipulate their effects. This paper disagrees. First, the premise of their proof does not demand that causes can be used to manipulate their effects but rather that if a relation passes a certain specific kind of test, it is causal. Second, the proof is invalid. Third, the kind of testability they require can easily be had without the causal Markov condition. <LIST> <ITEM>

Introduction </ITEM> <ITEM>

Earlier views: manipulability v testability </ITEM> <ITEM>

Increasingly weaker theses </ITEM> <ITEM>

The proof is invalid </ITEM> <ITEM>

MOD^* is implausible </ITEM> <ITEM>

Two alternative claims and their defects </ITEM> <ITEM>

A true claim and a valid argument </ITEM> <ITEM>

Indeterminism </ITEM> <ITEM>

Overall conclusion </ITEM></LIST>

The full text electronic article is available for purchase. You will be able to download the full text electronic article after payment.

$35.09 plus tax Refund Policy

From Metaphysics to Method: Comments on Manipulability and the Causal Markov Condition