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#531: Correlation, Causation & Cliché

Sigma Nutrition Radio

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Causation Comes from Context, Not Definition

The distinction between correlation and causation often leads to confusion in scientific discussions, particularly among epidemiologists. While defining causation has been a philosophical challenge for centuries, the focus should instead be on developing satisfactory causal models that can adequately appraise evidence. This allows for practical conclusions without needing a definitive definition of causation. Pushbacks regarding the causal implications of observed associations, such as the relationship between red meat and heart disease or LDL levels and heart attacks, misunderstand the nature of causal modeling. Context and established standards of proof provide the framework necessary to evaluate evidence and guide action, rather than fixating solely on the technical definitions of causation.

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