Correlation and Causation Flaw
LSAT glossary · Logical Reasoning
Definition
A reasoning error where the arguer assumes that because two events occur together or in sequence, one must cause the other. On the LSAT, this is tested by presenting statistical correlations and asking students to identify the unwarranted causal leap.
Correlation and Causation Flaw in plain English
Two things happening together doesn't prove one caused the other — that's the classic trap. Ice cream sales and drowning deaths both rise in summer, but ice cream doesn't cause drowning; hot weather drives both. This flaw is when an arguer sees two things move together (or one right after the other) and jumps to 'so this must cause that,' ignoring coincidence, a hidden third cause, or the arrow pointing the other way. On the LSAT, spot the leap from 'they're linked' to 'one made the other happen.'
Learn these first
Practice Correlation and Causation Flaw
Sign up free: all 104 LSAT terms as flashcards, plus practice questions with full explanations →
Related LSAT terms
LSAT practice questions · LSAT flashcards · LSAT study guide