
structural causal models
Structural causal models (SCMs) are mathematical tools used to understand how different factors influence each other. They represent causes and effects using variables and equations, showing how changing one factor (like studying more) can impact another (like exam scores). SCMs help us predict outcomes of interventions, answer “what-if” questions, and uncover causal relationships, going beyond just observing correlations. In essence, they provide a clear framework for analyzing cause-and-effect relationships in complex systems, guiding informed decisions and understanding in fields like medicine, economics, and social sciences.