The Regression Analysis of Causal Paths

Abstract

The regression analog of "path analysis" is described in detail. The method is a procedure for systematically analysing systems of causal networks by drawing a schematic diagram of the flow of cause and effect, obtaining model equations for the diagram, and reducing these to ordinary regression equations and analysing by standard techniques. Special attention is paid to cases of feedback including homeostasis and the classical data of Haldane and Priestley on the CO2 control of breathing has been subjected to analysis. Some attention has been paid to the relationship between path analysis and factor analysis; the problem of confidence limits has been discussed; and the extension of path analysis to the non-linear case is briefly considered.