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.
Sources
- Experiment (en.wikipedia.org)
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7879679/ (ncbi.nlm.nih.gov)
- 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 (gov.scot)