Distinctions
Is
| Identity (IS) | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Interacting causal network | Many causes influence each other simultaneously |
| Multi-directional causality | Causes influence each other in multiple directions |
| Feedback relationships | Effects loop back to influence their own causes |
| Nonlinear influence | Small inputs may create large effects (or none) |
| Emergent outcomes | Results arise from interactions rather than one source |
| Distributed causation | Responsibility is spread across multiple factors |
| Reinforcing and balancing loops | Dynamics created by cycles of amplification or stabilization |
| Interdependent drivers | Factors cannot be isolated without losing explanatory power |
| Systemic causality | The system structure produces outcomes |
Is Not
| Other (IS NOT) | Why It’s Different |
|---|---|
| Linear cause → effect chain | Single directional progression |
| Root cause explanation | Assumes one primary cause explains the outcome |
| Single-variable causation | One factor responsible for the outcome |
| Event-based explanation | Focus on discrete incidents rather than relationships |
| Blame attribution | Assigns responsibility to a person or action |
Boundary
A causal structure where multiple factors interact and influence each other through feedback, producing outcomes that cannot be explained by a single cause or linear chain.
- **Linear models assume causes act independently.
- A web of causality assumes causes modify each other.
Examples
- There is not a single person or committee that is over oil prices (not even OPEC). What drives the price of oil is supply and demand. There are many causes that can influence both the supply and demand of oil. So the cost isn’t caused by one factor, but rather a web of factors.