Causal Mechanisms Are Seen by Some Experts as an Essential

question 29

Essay

Causal mechanisms are seen by some experts as an essential part of causal explanations, but others argue that it is not a criterion for causality. Defend one side of this debate. Illustrate your argument with a hypothetical causal effect that is (or is not) strengthened by identification of a causal mechanism.

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Definitions:

Dividend Payment

A financial distribution by a corporation to its shareholders, typically from the company's earnings.

Personal Taxes

Taxes levied on individuals or households by the government based on income, wealth, or consumption.

Retail Investors

Individual investors who buy and sell securities for their personal account, and not for another organization or company.