The Action-Theoretic Basis of Practical Philosophy

This introduction to the book explains why and in which way action theory is one of the principal foundations of practical philosophy. Action theory has three methodologically distinguishable parts, which contribute in different ways to practical philosophy: (i) action-theoretical conceptual analysis of terms like 'action', 'intention'; this part is an underpinning of ethical and prudential analyses of responsibility; (ii) in a nomological part basic laws of human decision and action are explored, which helps to develop prescriptions for rational or moral deliberation and decision; (iii) in a practical-technical part concepts like 'freedom', 'autonomy' or 'self-control' are defined which then can function as guidelines for free, autonomous or self-controlled action.