The utility of expert epidemiologic testimony on causation is presented in this chapter, based on the historical perspective of law and economics and the inherent uncertainty in all causal determinations. The utility, benefits, and drawbacks of a 50% probability threshold versus a proportional liability approach to causation are discussed. Types of bias and sources of error potentially present in expert testimony are also presented, as well as judicial remedies to excessively flawed expert testimony.

doi.org/10.1016/B978-0-12-404584-2.00005-7, hdl.handle.net/1765/95710
Erasmus University Rotterdam

Faure, M., Visscher, L., Zeegers, M., & Freeman, M.D. (Michael D.). (2016). The Role of the Expert Witness. In Forensic Epidemiology: Principles and Practice (pp. 131–148). doi:10.1016/B978-0-12-404584-2.00005-7