Now in its second edition, this textbook is an authoritative and comprehensive introduction to the philosophy of action and agency. The new edition has been substantially revised. This edition is clearly structured around the many complexities of intentional action and includes more study tools.Specific new edition improvements include:A new chapter on agent-causationA new chapter on practical knowledge Updated and expanded coverage of issues in the ontology of action, including omissionsUpdated and expanded coverage of the psychology of intentional actionCompletely rewritten chapters on reasons for action and action explanationAn extended discussion of agents, including group agency and artificial agency The new edition s improved study tools include: more signposting, many new examples, expanded suggestions for further reading, and new end-of-chapter questions.Philosophy of Action 2/e is essential reading for all undergraduate and graduate students of
the philosophy of action and agency.
Preface.- Chapter 1. Introduction to Intentional Action.- Chapter 2. Causalism.- Chapter 3. Teleological Antireductionism and Volitionism.- Chapter 4. Agent-Causation.- Chapter 5. Ontology.- Chapter 6. Philosophical Psychology.- Chapter 7. Reasons for Action.- Chapter 8. Action Explanation.- Chapter 9. Practical Knowledge.- Chapter 10. Agency.
Lilian O"Brien is a Senior Research Fellow at Tampere University and University Researcher at the University of Helsinki. Much of the second edition was written during a core fellowship at the Helsinki Collegium for Advanced Studies. Before moving to Finland she received a PhD from Brown University and taught at Vassar College, The College of William and Mary, and University College Cork.
