What does the doctrine of causal linkage imply about liability?

The doctrine of causal linkage, often referred to in tort law as "causation," emphasizes the connection between a defendant's conduct and the resulting harm or injury to the plaintiff. In order to establish liability, it is essential that the plaintiff demonstrates that the defendant's actions not only contributed to the harm but also increased the probability of that harm occurring. This means that the defendant's conduct must be a substantial factor in bringing about the plaintiff's injury.

In this context, option B addresses the essential aspect of causation by indicating that the defendant's conduct must effectively elevate the likelihood of harm occurring. This aligns with the fundamental principles of tort law where a causal connection must be present to hold someone liable.

Other options suggest different understandings of liability that do not fully align with the principles underlying causal linkage. For instance, asserting that a defendant could be liable for all consequences of their actions (as stated in one of the other options) does not take into account the necessity of establishing a direct causal relationship. Moreover, stating that the plaintiff must suffer immediate harm misrepresents how harm can manifest over time, nor does it allow for circumstances where harm may occur at a later date as a direct result of the defendant's actions. Finally, the notion that a