What is a long term and a short term cause?

A long-term cause refers to an underlying factor that contributes to a situation or event over an extended period, often shaping trends or conditions that lead to significant consequences. In contrast, a short-term cause is an immediate trigger or event that directly precipitates a situation, often occurring suddenly and leading to quick reactions. For example, economic policies (long-term) may set the stage for a financial crisis, while a sudden market collapse (short-term) can be the immediate cause of that crisis. Understanding both types of causes is essential for analyzing complex issues effectively.