Philosophy 351EA - Special Topics in Philosophy: 'Intention and Action'

What is the difference between dropping a bomb knowing that there will be civilian casualties and doing so in order to kill civilians? This course will examine the psychological concepts underlying our actions. We will ask: When is an action intentional, and when is it not? How do we know what we are doing, if we know it at all? What is practical reasoning, if such reasoning exists? We will explore these questions by reading foundational texts in philosophy of action, including Elizabeth Anscombe's Intention, among others.

Prereq: 8 credits in Philosophy.