This paper presents the econometric approach to causal modeling. It is motivated by policy problems. New causal parameters are defined and identified to address specific policy problems. Economists embrace a scientific approach to causality and model the preferences and choices of agents to infer subjective (agent) evaluations as well as objective outcomes. Anticipated and realized subjective and objective outcomes are distinguished. Models for simultaneous causality are developed. The paper contrasts the Neyman-Rubin model of causality with the econometric approach.
Authors
![James Heckman](/sites/default/files/styles/square_desktop/public/2022-07/James%20Heckman.jpg?itok=zU2q-IGg)
Research Associate University of Chicago
James is a Research Associate of the IFS and the Henry Schultz Distinguished Service Professor of Economics at the University of Chicago.
Working Paper details
- DOI
- 10.1920/wp.cem.2008.0108
- Publisher
- IFS
Suggested citation
Heckman, J. (2008). Econometric causality. London: IFS. Available at: https://ifs.org.uk/publications/econometric-causality (accessed: 1 July 2024).
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