Causal graphs as a tool for exploring language evolution

Krykoniuk, Kateryna and Roberts, Seán G. ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-5990-9161 2025. Causal graphs as a tool for exploring language evolution. Raviv, Limor and Cedric, Boeckx, eds. The Oxford Handbook of Approaches to Language Evolution, Oxford: Oxford University Press, pp. 441-454. (10.1093/oxfordhb/9780192886491.013.22)

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Abstract

This chapter discusses the method of causal inference that has recently gained more recognition among researchers, as some gaps in statistical theories became apparent. Because causal graphs allow researchers to visualize observations, this method can be applied as a tool to make claims about causal effects and to think about theories in a wider context. The current chapter explains the fundamentals of causal graphs and illustrates their application to the field of evolutionary linguistics using examples from the Causal Hypotheses in Evolutionary Linguistics Database (CHIELD). The chapter argues that causal graphs can be useful at every stage of research in evolutionary linguistics, including literature review, hypothesis formulation, experiment design, and the communication of findings.

Item Type:	Book Section
Date Type:	Publication
Status:	Published
Schools:	Schools > English, Communication and Philosophy
Subjects:	H Social Sciences > H Social Sciences (General) P Language and Literature > P Philology. Linguistics
Publisher:	Oxford University Press
ISBN:	9780192886491
Date of First Compliant Deposit:	5 June 2024
Last Modified:	29 Jul 2025 08:52
URI:	https://orca.cardiff.ac.uk/id/eprint/168709

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