Causality in Econometrics: Imbens (2019) PO and DAG approaches

As young scholars, we formulate abstractions from the economy by means of our causal approaches that shape how we treat the economy. Yet, a question arises: what type of approach do we possess in analyzing the economy? How consistent and credible is our understanding of causality with regards to the economic subject matter? In the fifth session, we will address two of the major causality frameworks used in empirical economics.

After having covered many discussions related to the topic, we hope that the next paper will provide a distinct and explicit light on the implicit causal frameworks utilized in applied economics. This time we read Imbens (2019) Potential Outcome (PO) and Directed Acyclic Graph (DAG) Approaches to Causality: Relevance for Empirical Practice in Economics. In the paper, author discusses "potential outcome and graphical approaches to causality, and their relevance for empirical work in economics." Although the paper is considerably longer than the other ones we have had before, it will be a rewarding one to supplement our analytical understandings of the economic subject matter. In the end, this reading sessions are aimed at shaping us as young scholars to tackle upcoming global challenges, perhaps not the prevailing ones.

Paper: Imbens, G. (2019) Potential Outcome and Directed Acyclic Graph Approaches to Causality: Relevance for Empirical Practice in Economics, Cornell University.
Link to the paper: https://arxiv.org/pdf/1907.07271.pdf
Date: 1. April 2020, 21:00 (CET, Berlin)

Besides, it is mandatory to read the paper, since the discussion will be based on the paper of each reading session.

Structure: First 30 minutes we will discuss key points from the paper. Then, we will move on to elaborate, criticize or analyze the ideas stated and try to connect the reading to the overall picture of the reading group.

Please do join us if you are interested.

Looking forward to having a fruitful discussion about the two different approaches to causality in applied economics.