When reading the book, I found it very useful to know that there were common mistakes when evaluating cause and effect. According to Epstein, there are two types of common mistakes: a) reversing cause and effect. b) Looking too hard for a cause (308).
A. Reversing cause and effect
This is a common mistake that people do.
Here is an example:
Sarah: Exercising a lot makes you hungry and thirsty
Tim: Are you hungry and thirsty now?
Sarah: Nope because I haven't exercise yet.
Well Sarah said that she wasn't hungry because she hasn't exercised yet, but that is not the only way people can get hungry. Exercising is not the only cause of hunger and thirst.
B. Looking too hard for a cause
It is unnecessary to explain to a person what was the cause of that event. Some cause are not even sure or identified. Some are just coincidence like Epstein explains on page 309.
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