Historical perspective on causal inference
In Hellenic philosophy, ancient Greece played a pivotal role. Pre-Socratic philosophers such as Thales and Heraclitus explored the nature of change and causality. Ancient Greek philosophers contributed significantly to systematic approaches to understanding causality by examining cause-and-effect relationships. They introduced important causal concepts, including the idea that nothing comes from nothing (attributed to Parmenides). While not originating the principle of sufficient reason, their work laid the foundations for later philosophical developments. Their ideas have influenced our understanding of causation, though modern concepts have evolved significantly, incorporating insights from various traditions, scientific advancements, and mathematical frameworks.
Aristotle, however, provided a more structured approach to causality with his four causes theory:
- Material cause: The material from which something is made (e.g., the...
