| Causal Modelling
Causal modelling identifies how one thing causes another to occur. In the realm of humanitarian assessments, such modelling is necessary to understand the effects of one possible cause in the context of other possible causes of changes in humanitarian conditions, namely, impoverishment, disease, death or other worsened conditions of life. To be useful, a model — which specifies key variables and the relations between them — should specify steps by which actions lead to outcomes through intervening variables. Such a model helps focus attention on what information to collect, the nature of the relationship between variables, and how and in what way each contributes to the humanitarian outcomes examined. more........
There are several different types of causes that can be identified in building models of cause and effect. Becoming aware of different types of causes and their interrelationships can assist in investigating possible linkages between social, political and economic factors, and changes in humanitarian conditions. more........
In social science research there is often no clearcut, simple formula for deciding what constitutes a causal relationship. This decision will probably involve a judgement call among several possible criteria.
Intentionality is often ascribed to events purported to be causes. more......
3.4.1 Operating within plausible and realistic boundaries
Some leaps of faith are too great to be plausible or relevant. Some consequences are too remote from their purported causes to be considered important. But how remote is too remote? more......
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