For a causal relationship to exist there must be evidence
A)of an empirical correlation between the variables.
B)that one variable precedes the other in time.
C)that a third variable did not cause the changes observed in the first two variables.
D)that one variable precedes the other in time and that the two variables are correlated.
E)that one variable precedes the other in time, that the two variables are correlated and that this relationship is not spurious.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

To establish a causal relationship, there must be evidence of temporal precedence, correlation, and non-spuriousness, which is the elimination of alternative explanations. Therefore, the best choice is E, which includes all three criteria. A is not enough because correlation alone does not prove causation. B is not enough because temporal precedence alone does not prove causation. C is not enough because it does not include the criterion of correlation, which is necessary for establishing causation. D is not enough because it does not include the criterion of non-spuriousness.

For a Causal Relationship to Exist There Must Be Evidence