ABSTRACT
Derek Parfit contends that there are only two positions regarding reasons: objectivism and subjectivism. In On What Matters, Parfit divides theories of reasons into two camps: objectivism and subjectivism. In an objectivist theory of reasons, what one has reason to do have its foundation in the value of one's goal. Parfit argues against both actual desires subjectivism and hypothetical desires subjectivism. Subjectivism is, as Parfit notes, a position that many philosophers accept. His main argument against subjectivism is the "Agony Argument." The falsehood of pure objectivism does not imply blanket subjectivism. If an inclusive theory of reasons is correct, then the proper approach to reasons is one that goes beyond the possibilities considered by Parfit. There is a path beyond objectivism and subjectivism. The positions on offer in the philosophical literature, whether termed "objectivism" or "subjectivism," "internalism or "externalism," are not exhaustive. The distinction between procedural rationality and substantive rationality is key to Parfit's arguments.
