Secondary-level dimensions can causally produce the basic-level factors theories treat as causes.

Evidence

The latent variable approach usually models indicators as effects of basic-level causes. Here I explore the converse pattern, how basic-level factors are effects of secondary-level causes. Using Skocpol I show how basic-level factors like state breakdown are produced by some secondary-level causes like international pressure. In this kind of two-level model the causal arrow goes from the secondary level to the basic level. One can think of this relationship between levels in terms of causal mechanisms. The secondary level provides various causal mechanisms for the production of basic-level phenomena. — Gary Goertz, Social Science Concepts and Measurement, 1517

Categorization

• QUESTION: If the causal arrow runs from secondary to basic level, when is it legitimate to treat basic-level factors as independent variables rather than outcomes?