What is the problem of agency?

Philosophy Of Mind Questions



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What is the problem of agency?

The problem of agency refers to the philosophical challenge of understanding how human beings possess the capacity to act as agents, making choices and decisions that are not solely determined by external factors or physical processes. It raises questions about free will, moral responsibility, and the nature of human autonomy. The problem of agency explores the tension between the belief in human freedom and the scientific understanding of the world as governed by causal laws. It asks whether our actions are truly free or if they are predetermined by factors beyond our control. Resolving the problem of agency requires examining the relationship between the mind and the body, exploring the nature of consciousness, and considering the role of intentionality in human action.