Causality detection: Difference between revisions

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Thus, causality typically involves at least a temporal ''delay'' between the two events.
Thus, causality typically involves at least a temporal ''delay'' between the two events.


In the context of data analysis, it is more productive to adopt [[Wikipedia:Norbert_Wiener|Wiener]]'s 'quantifiable causality'. <ref>N. Wiener. ''The theory of prediction.'' Modern Mathematics for Engineers, Mc-Graw Hill, New York, 1956, ISBN 0486497461</ref> It states:
In the context of data analysis, it is more productive to adopt [[Wikipedia:Norbert_Wiener|Wiener]]'s 'quantifiable causality'. <ref>N. Wiener. ''The theory of prediction.'' Modern Mathematics for Engineers, Mc-Graw Hill, New York, 1956, {{ISBN|0486497461}}</ref> It states:
* if we can predict X better by using the past information from Y than without it, then we call Y causal to X.
* if we can predict X better by using the past information from Y than without it, then we call Y causal to X.


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* Quantify parameters related to system evolution (growth rates, damping rates).
* Quantify parameters related to system evolution (growth rates, damping rates).
* Use techniques such as correlations, conditional averages; these linear analysis techniques by themselves cannot reveal causality, but additional reasoning (based on physical insight or models) may allow drawing conclusions.   
* Use techniques such as correlations, conditional averages; these linear analysis techniques by themselves cannot reveal causality, but additional reasoning (based on physical insight or models) may allow drawing conclusions.   
In the fusion context, see <ref>K.H. Burrell, ''Tests of causality: Experimental evidence that sheared <math>E \times B</math> flow alters turbulence and transport in tokamaks'',[[doi:10.1063/1.873728|Phys. Plasmas, '''6'''(12):4418, 1999]]</ref>.
In the fusion context, see <ref>K.H. Burrell, ''Tests of causality: Experimental evidence that sheared <math>E \times B</math> flow alters turbulence and transport in tokamaks'', [[doi:10.1063/1.873728|Phys. Plasmas, '''6'''(12):4418, 1999]]</ref>.


== Analysis techniques ==
== Analysis techniques ==