Abstract
Understanding the causality of events, from individual life choices to major historical shifts, presents a significant analytical challenge. Events are rarely the product of a single, isolated cause but rather emerge from a complex interplay of forces. This paper introduces the 4C Framework, a novel, interdisciplinary model for deconstructing and analyzing the architecture of any given event. The framework posits that events are shaped by the dynamic interplay of four key pillars: Context, Choice, Competition, and Chance. Context provides the foundational social, cultural, and historical landscape. Choice represents the capacity for agentic action, often under conditions of bounded rationality. Competition describes the strategic interaction among agents for scarce resources. Chance encompasses the role of contingency, randomness, and unpredictability. This paper first defines the conceptual foundations of each pillar, drawing on theories from sociology, psychology, economics, and philosophy. It then demonstrates the frameworkâs broad applicability through a series of illustrative examples, including career selection, public health outcomes, and military conflict. The paper concludes by evaluating the uses and limitations of the 4C theory and outlining a scope for future research, positioning the framework as a robust heuristic for scholars and practitioners seeking a comprehensive understanding of event causality.
Details
Presentation Type
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session
Theme
KEYWORDS
CONTEXT, CHOICE, COMPETITION, CHANCE, EVENTS, CASUALTY, SOCIAL STRUCTURE, AGENCY.Interdisciplinary Framework
