Causation

Definition

Causation means the abstract relationship between cause and effect. Cause, by contrast, means a specific event or action that directly produces an effect. So, causation focuses on the principle or link. Cause focuses on the individual producer of an outcome. In other words, causation is the abstract connection or chain between two things, while cause is the specific event that starts the chain.

What it describes

A scientist studies whether a new drug helps patients recover faster. She gives the drug to one group and a placebo to another. She finds that the group taking the drug improves much more than the placebo group. However, she cannot simply say the drug caused the improvement. She must prove that no other factor – like better food or extra rest – is responsible. The link between the drug and recovery is what matters. What is the scientist trying to prove? She is trying to prove causation.

Examples in context

• The study found a correlation but could not prove causation.
• In tort law, the plaintiff must establish causation between the defendant’s act and the injury.