All models are wrong, but some are useful - the models are wrong because they heavily rely on assumptions which sometimes may not hold; the models can be useful because they help us to uncover causal relationship from observed data.

This course will touch on the mainstream causal-inference models in social science, which can be used to carry out advanced data analysis in signature works. After taking this course, students will develop a better understanding of quantitative methods in social science, and will be able to generate research hypothesis that can be examined by causal inference models. To that end, students will be exposed to academic papers using quantitative analysis, and will discuss research proposals with the instructor as well as their peers. During this course, students will also learn how to find data and use statistical tools (eg. STATA) to analyze them. This course may appeal to many students interested in economics, political science, sociology, public policy and data science.