In this engaging discussion, Naftali Weinberger, a researcher at Munich Center for Mathematical Philosophy, explores the intricate concepts of causality and dynamical systems. He unpacks the significance of time scales in causal analysis and critiques Bertrand Russell's view on causation's relevance. The conversation dives into how modern physics is reshaping our understanding of causality, alongside the challenges posed by big data. Naftali also shares valuable advice for those beginning their journey in causal inference, promising to challenge your perception of reality!
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insights INSIGHT
Causality's Relevance
Causality remains essential in many scientific fields and industries despite Bertrand Russell's claim.
Its scientific legitimacy should not be questioned, especially given its practical applications.
question_answer ANECDOTE
Flossing and Bleeding Gums
A dentist explains that flossing causes bleeding gums initially, but continued flossing eventually stops the bleeding.
This illustrates how causal relationships can change depending on the timescale considered.
insights INSIGHT
Confounders and Timescale
Hidden confounders are a concern in causal inference, but timescale is a subtle issue.
Variables constant over time might be background conditions, not confounders, unless they start varying.
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Video version available on YouTube Recorded on Aug 29, 2023 in München, Germany
Can we meaningfully talk about causality in dynamical systems?
Some people are puzzled when it comes to dynamical systems and the idea of causation.
Dynamical systems well-known in physics, social sciences, and biology are often thought of as a special family of systems, where it might be difficult to meaningfully talk about causal direction.
Naftali Weinberger devoted his career to examining the relationships between system dynamics, causality and the phenomena known broadly as "complexity".
We explore what does "intervention" mean in a dynamical system and we deconstruct common intuitions about causality and system's equilibrium.
We discuss the importance of time scales when defining a causal system, analyze what could have inspired Bertrand Russell to say that causality is a "relic of a bygone age" and ponder the phenomenon of emergence.
Finally, Naftali shares his advice for those of us just starting exploring the uncharted territory of causal inference and discovery.
Warning: this conversation might bend your sense of reality.
Use with caution!
Ready to dive in?
About The Guest Naftali Weinberger, PhD is a Researcher at Munich Center for Mathematical Philosophy at LMU. His research is focused on causality, dynamical systems and fairness. He works with scientists, researchers and philosophers around the globe helping them address challenges in diverse fields like climate change, psychometrics, fairness and more.
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