Causal Measurement Models: Can Criticism Stimulate Clarification?

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Notes

1. The use of the phrase “beg the question” to mean to raise the question has gained some currency. I will use the phrase only in its original meaning to assume what was meant to be demonstrated.

2. Factor score indeterminacy might explain some of the findings reported by Guyon and Tensaout (2015) regarding correlations between factor score estimates.

3. Along with the issues raised in this comment, the amorphous and loosely defined notion of conceptual unity holds a central place in such clarification. Delineation of the inferences supported by causal measurement models offers another area for development. The burden of clarification rests with enthusiasts because, no matter how well intentioned, clarification by skeptics always remains open to charges of constructing a straw person argument.