Full Idea
The counterfactual analysis is open to the Euthyphro objection: it is causal dependence that explains any counterfactual dependence rather than vice versa.
Clarification
See Idea 336 for the Euthyphro objection (i.e. which comes first?)
Gist of Idea
Causal dependence explains counterfactual dependence, not vice versa
Source
George Molnar (Powers [1998], 12.1)
Book Reference
Molnar,George: 'Powers: a study in metaphysics', ed/tr. Mumford,Stephen [OUP 2003], p.187
A Reaction
I take views like the counterfactual analysis of causation to arise from empiricists who are bizarrely reluctant to adopt plausible best explainations (such as powers and essences).
Related Idea
Idea 336 Is what is pious loved by the gods because it is pious, or is it pious because they love it? (the 'Euthyphro Question') [Plato]