Causal attribution and Mill's methods of experimental inquiry: Past, present and prospect

J. S. Mill proposed a set of Methods of Experimental Inquiry that were inte nded to guide causal inference under every conceivable sec of circumstances in which experiments or observations could be carried out. The conceptual and historical relationship between these Methods and modern models of caus al attribution is investigated. Mill's work retains contemporary relevance because his insights show how research can progress into presently uncharte d waters, Following Mill, it is proposed chat people use many different met hods of causal attribution, the nature of which remains to be ascertained, and that the conditions that affect choice of method include the need to el iminate alternative causal candidates, whether single or multiple events ar e to be explained, the use of intervention or experiment as opposed to mere observation, and practical concerns.