Flawed Causal Reasoning

[cmorris32]

Hi PowerScore!

I wanted to clarify... is all causal reasoning on the LSAT flawed reasoning? I remember seeing somewhere (possibly in the LR Bible) that causal reasoning is mostly used on Strengthen, Weaken, Justify, and Flaw question types.

Thanks!
Caroline

[Dave Killoran]

No, it's not! It's typically flawed when the causality is in the conclusion. When it's in the premises, it's not problematic since mostly you accept the premises as given. So, the following is valid:

• Premise: A is known to cause B
  Premise: A occurs
  
  Conclusion: B occurs.

So, you will find examples where causality exists in the premises and the argument is not flawed When the causality is in the conclusion, that's often when you see the question types you mention.

Thanks!

[cmorris32]

Ohhh ok, totally makes sense! Thank you Dave!