It is not possible to evaluate evidence to determine whether a causal linkage exists between two factors until one first defines the state of the evidence that will be viewed as manifesting such a linkage. Because "causal linkage" has not been defined, each scientist-advocate who opines regarding this point will do so with reference to his own notion of the meaning of that phrase. Some investigators require that evidence be conclusive before a causal linkage can be established. In my view, much evidence indicates that the appropriate standard is less than conclusive. Regardless of which view is correct, however, the decision regarding which burden is appropriate belongs to society, not to individual scientists.

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