ABSTRACT
This chapter introduces critical rationalism to the theory of human action, arguing that the justificationist concept of knowledge applied by the utilitarian and normative models of action in defining the meaning of ‘rational’ action is unable to address the origins of action goals. The separation of justification and criticism, however, allows the theory of action to build ideal types of rational action based on critical rationalism. Inspired by Kant’s moral philosophy, critical rationalism offers the argument that actors are the authors of the system of values they give themselves. In addition, actors apply critical reason to find effective means to realize their ends. The three agents of social dialogue – thinkers/social movements/masses – are introduced in order to show how human action contributes to the rise of social order and its change.
