ABSTRACT
This chapter argues that for a complete and correct understanding of action, one needs to know precisely what role consciousness plays across the different temporal parameters. This is especially true in regard to the question of whether consciousness is epiphenomenal – something that accompanies action but plays no causal role in action. The chapter also argues that insofar as consciousness is characterized by intentionality, it should not be regarded as epiphenomenal. Consciousness during action may actually derive from subpersonal processes that occur prior to action. Consciousness during action may be more complex than already indicated if it also involves a sense of agency. This has become a controversial issue, however. The chapter suggests that in a variety of contexts, consciousness prior to action is motivating for action; conscious attunement to events or to other people in the environment during action may have an effect on action; and even consciousness after action may redefine what that action is.
