Cause and Effect

 

How problematic it is ... assigning effect to a cause!

Let us observe the existence of three circumstances: A, B, and C.

An astute observer may consider, and conclude that C exists as a result of the causal factor B.

For example, as in the recent media reports, men who don’t eat breakfast have a 27% higher risk of heart attacks.

Cause. No breakfast = B.

And effect. Increased risk of heart attack = C.

But is B a causal factor, or an effect?

Easy to overlook is the possibility that not eating breakfast may be a consequence of the habit of eating a large meal late in the day – which causes not only the aversion for an early meal the following day, but also an increased risk of heart attack.

Cause. Large, late meal = A

Effect. Aversion for breakfast = B.

Effect. Increased risk of heart attack = C.

We grow too soon old, and too late smart.