Definition
Correlation is a statistical measure describing the strength and direction of association between two variables.
Human Explanation
It shows whether two variables tend to change together and how strong that relationship is.
Why it Matters
Correlation helps identify patterns between observed phenomena and indicates where further analysis may be useful.
Conceptual Boundary
Correlation does not prove causation. Two variables may be correlated even when neither causes the other, or when both are influenced by another factor.
Practical Perspective
Correlation is often a starting point for further investigation and statistical modelling. It should generate questions, not be treated as a complete causal explanation.