Possible PIP Topics

 

Link:

CourseWeb: Causal Reasoning

 

For this semester, I was asked to complete a Personal Inquiry Project (PIP).  The goal of this project is to use formal theory about causation to enhance decision making abilities in real life situations.  During the semester, I will conduct scientific research about a causal hypothesis that could be relevant to my future.  I will then evaluate the hypothesis based on research and decide how to act based on its conclusion.  After the break, I will begin the project by offering three decision problems that I might choose to investigate.

 

     As stated earlier, the questions I will be focusing on will be decisions I might have to make in the future.  After choosing a question, I will then offer two hypotheses for each one.  There will be scientific research to address the causal hypothesis I choose to investigate.  After offering three quesions, I will then select one in which to apply the semester project to.

 

Question 1:

 

Should I purchase my next mountain bike with a steeper head tube angle in lieu of a slacker one?

 

Hypothesis 1a:

 

Steeper head tube angles help you go faster.

 

Hypothesis 1b:

 

Steeper head tube angles decrease stability.

 

Question 2:

 

Should I purchase a PC over a Mac?

 

Hypothesis 2a:

 

PC's offer more functionality and a lower price level.

 

Hypothesis 2b:

 

Mac's are less susceptible to viruses.

 

Question 3:

 

Should I use marijuana to treat anxiety or other health problems?

 

Hypothesis 3a:

 

Using marijuana can be used to treat anxiety as well as other ailments.

 

Hypothesis 3b:

 

Using marijuana can be addictive and hazardous to your health.

 

After further consideration, I will choose a topic that most interests me and has sufficient scientific research.  By the project's conclusion, I hope to have better decision making skills by employing formal causation theory.