Natural experiments exist as a type of experimental study distinct from controlled experiments.
Notes on verification
Well-corroborated by multiple independent, authoritative sources (Wikipedia, Britannica, peer-reviewed methodology papers, government research guide). Minor academic debate exists about precise definitional boundaries, but the core distinction from controlled experiments is well established. [cascade flags: aggregator_dropped_primary_exists | tier=silver indep_score=0.925 clusters=2 claim_tier=everyday]
Sources
- Experiment (wikipedia)
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7879679/ (corroboration)
- https://www.gov.scot/binaries/content/documents/govscot/publications/advice-and-guidance/2009/12/social-research-methods-guides/documents/natural-experiments/natural-experiments/govscot:document/Natural+Experiments.pdf (corroboration)