ABSTRACT

In this chapter, the author argues that Aristotle's analysis of Action – in terms of the voluntary/involuntary distinction, choice, character and habituation through the education and training that forms part of social life – can be accounted in terms of self-conscious Action. By looking closely at what Aristotle says about prohairesisin relation to education, the roles that self-sufficiency and independence play in self-conscious, purposive Action can be elucidated. Aristotle's account of Action has deservedly attracted much attention in the 20th century. In his voluntary/involuntary distinction, and his discussion of choice and practical reasoning there has been a slow but significant move away from discussing abstract moral theories to looking to the specific details of Action and the implications on ethics. Causal analysis exemplifies the explanations of Action in terms of a way of thinking, trying to think of ways in which thought and reasoning can result in Action, rather than with the logic of Action itself.