Let’s Discuss: Correlation is NOT the same as Causation! 

In the media, correlations are often presented as if there is a causal relationship. For example, a news outlet might report: Research suggests there could be a link between dairy intake and the risk of developing prostate and ovarian cancers. Then they ask: Does milk cause cancer? As a researcher, I have been interviewed by magazines and this is really frustrating!

Class, provide an example of when a media outlet reported a correlation as if there was causation (be sure to show your source), then, explain why correlation does not show causation. The more ridiculus the better!