Terms
Diagram: Causal Loop Diagrams

Causal Loop Diagrams

A tool used for capturing causal chains in Networks.

A causal loop diagram (CLD) is a theoretical account of how different Variables in a system are causally related. It obeys specific rules on how to represent those different relationships, namely, on positive and negative causal relationships, and it focuses on representing these Feedback dynamics.

A CLD is useful as a theoretical tool amongst policy makers to aid the process of compiling and discussing  the most important agents in a system, and the dynamics that contribute to their evolution in a qualitative way. Often these diagrams can then be used as a tool to initiate the development of a quantitative model - such as a computer simulation model - but is a good first step for understanding the dynamics of a system with experts or stakeholdersnot directly involved with model development.

Strengths

It is relatively simple to read, and it highlights important feedbacks, facilitating discussion.

Weaknesses

It does not provide quantitative information of the behavior of a system; it may contain logically inconsistent information; it gets cluttered and hard to read as the model becomes more complex

Tools

Check out this free Online Tool for creating your own diagrams:

Example

This example shows a variety of causal variables impacting upon agricultural production - arrowheads indicate direction of causal chains.

See Also: Seewall Wright

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Cite this page:

Wohl, S. (2022, 13 June). Causal Loop Diagrams. Retrieved from https://kapalicarsi.wittmeyer.io/definition/causal-loop-diagrams

Causal Loop Diagrams was updated June 13th, 2022.

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    • There would be some thought experiments here.