Causal Process Theories

Phil Dowe*

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingChapterpeer-review

1 Citation (Scopus)

Abstract

If the core idea of process theories of causation is that causation can be understood in terms of causal processes and interactions, then the approach should be attributed primarily to Wesley Salmon (1925-2001). Salmon takes causal processes and interactions as more fundamental than causal relations between events. To express this Salmon liked to quote John Venn: 'Substitute for the time honoured "chain of causation", so often introduced into discussions upon this subject, the phrase a "rope of causation", and see what a very different aspect the question will wear'. According to the process theory, any facts about causation as a relation between events obtain only on account of more basic facts about causal processes and interactions. Causal processes are the world-lines of objects, exhibiting some characteristic essential for causation.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationThe Oxford Handbook of Causation
EditorsHelen Beebee, Christopher Hitchcock, Peter Menzies
PublisherOxford University Press
Chapter10
Pages213–233
ISBN (Electronic)9780191577246
ISBN (Print)9780199279739
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2 Jan 2010
Externally publishedYes

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