Belief and Reasoning Biases
Causal illusion
Seeing cause where there is only association.
What Is Causal illusion?
Causal illusion is a thinking trap where seeing cause where there is only association.
How It Tricks You
It can make a conclusion feel proven because it fits what already seems true.
Real-World Example
A lucky shirt gets credit for a team win.
Seen Online As
- The fast interpretation is doing more work than the evidence.
- The claim feels obvious before the check question is asked.
- A shortcut is making the judgment feel more certain than it is.
What To Ask Instead
What else could explain both things?
Related Thinking Traps
Common Situations
Quick FAQ
What is Causal illusion?
Seeing cause where there is only association.
What is an example of Causal illusion?
A lucky shirt gets credit for a team win.
How do I spot Causal illusion?
What else could explain both things?