Optimal Transport and Causal Inference: A Review of Deep Connections

A recent review published on arXiv (2503.07811v3) delves into the relationship between optimal transport theory and causal inference in observational studies. Announced as a cross-replace, the paper suggests that although research integrating these two areas is still in its infancy, key models in causal inference have historically utilized optimal transport concepts. This review seeks to reveal the profound connections that exist between optimal transport and the identification of causal effects, emphasizing how optimal transportation theory, which evaluates probability distributions through their state space, corresponds with the counterfactual focus of causal inference. Authored by experts in the field, this significant review is accessible on arXiv, potentially providing fresh perspectives for causal analysis across various scientific fields.