Café Inquiry (Grand Rapids) - Does Correlation Necessarily Have a Cause?

About this event

We’ve all likely heard the phrase, “correlation is not causation” or words to that effect. Join us IN PERSON at the next Café Inquiry as Phil Gleason leads a discussion about correlation and causation. Sometimes two (or more) things that correlate have a causal relationship – and sometimes they don’t. If we observe A and B together, did A cause B, or did B cause A? Or did something unobserved cause both A and B? Is it possible to have a correlation and not have a cause? Can we infer causation with a high degree of confidence without gold-standard controlled, double-blind studies? We’ll post some background material [here](https://www.michiganhumanists.org/event/cafe-inquiry-grand-rapids-15/) a few days before the meeting. This should be a fascinating conversation. Hope to see you there! Café Inquiry starts with a short introduction of the day’s topic, followed by casual discussion. This event is free and open to the public. [Donations appreciated](https://www.michiganhumanists.org/donate/), but not expected. Attendees are able to future propose topics which would align with Michigan Humanist’s purpose: from atheism, agnosticism, humanism, secularism, and freethinking to broader subjects in science and humanities, such as religion, philosophy, social issues, politics, evolution, morality, ethics, and psychology. To access the **choir room** enter the building via the Fountain Street entrance. Take the elevator or stairs to the second floor, and follow the Michigan Humanist signs. Or ask directions from someone. The choir room is located on the left at the south end of the west hallway. **Parking information –** Street parking, if you can find it, is free on Sunday. The nearby GRCC Parking structure is free until 3 PM on Sunday, although this is not advertised. You will need to take a ticket to enter the structure but the exit gate will be open if you leave before 3 PM. Parking is also available free for up to 2 hours in the Public Library lot for patrons. You…