The Concept of Causality in the Physical and Social Sciences

Abstract

I Causality Among the Primitives. The primitive, when he thinks, deals with animated causes. They are generative powers inherent in things, * creatures, persons, divinities. Such are the powers of magic, spirits, mana, supernatural creators. These powers as causes are built on the pattern of the human will, the only source of acts or events with which the primitive is familiar in his personal experience. To us, a universe thus constructed appears mystical, fantastic. Many writers, for example, LevyBruhl, impressed by this aspect of primitive thought, have ascribed to the primitive a mentality radically different from our own. It must be remembered, however, that in certain spheres of primitive culture a very different approach to things comes to light, e.g., in industry. Here there is ample evidence of a thoroughly objective orientation to experience. Things and creatures are observed in their properties and behaviors. When intent upon fashioning tools or weapons or other articles of use, such as baskets, pots or canoes, the primitive is well cognizant of the qualities of the materials he uses and of the purposes his handiwork is to serve. His pot is not too heavy nor too brittle, his basket is waterproof; his canoe sits lightly on the water, it moves fast when properly propelled, nor does it capsize too easily. All this the primitive achieves in the only way it can be achieved, namely, by paying proper heed to the stuffs with which he operates and to the objective character of processes and techniques. If he fails, he permits the inadequate results to retroact upon the procedure. He modifies it until success crowns his efforts. There is here indisputable evidence, inferential though it be, of insight into causal linkages. The insight is not overt; the primitive may not be aware of it, usually he is not, but his behavior betrays his wisdom. When he thinks, he dreams; but when he acts, he thinks, especially so when his acts are deeply immersed in natural things and processes. In a sense, and, to repeat, without being aware of it, he assimilates himself to nature, which is his working companion. Uniformity, rational intent, knowledge, trial and error, learning from experience, linking causes with effects and vice versa, are here, indubitably.' II. Causality in Science. These two facets of the causal concept per-