The Springs of Action

Abstract

An assumption common to the theories of action discussed in the last chapter is that voluntary action has a distinctive mental aspect. Although I raised a general metaphysical doubt about the basis for those theories, I shall now put that doubt aside, at least initially, and attempt to work out a plausible view of how the mental aspects of action are best understood. Toward the end of the chapter I shall show how a philosophical opponent of actions and states can come to terms with the view I develop.