Which of the conditions must be satisfied in order to justify the inference of a causal relationship between two variables?
i. Concomitant variation
ii. Time order of occurrence of variables
iii. Absence of other possible causal factors
iv. Sterile measurement environment
A) (i)
B) (i), (iii) and (iv)
C) (ii) and (iii)
D) (i) and (iv)
E) (i), (ii) and (iii)

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

For inferring a causal relationship between two variables, concomitant variation (i.e. the two variables vary together), time order of occurrence (i.e. the cause must precede the effect) and absence of other possible causal factors (i.e. no other variable could be responsible for the effect) must be satisfied. Sterile measurement environment (iv) is not necessary for inferring a causal relationship. Therefore, the best choice is (E) which includes all options except (iv).

Which of the Conditions Must Be Satisfied in Order to Justify