Read the essay by Chisholm (P12, W1). Chisholm defends a version of "the theory of agency." We will at least begin discussing his view in class today (11/3).
1) At the very end of section 6, Chisholm says that he will discuss two objections to his theory. In the sections that follow, he presents the two objections and replies to them. Pick one of the objections and discuss the adequacy of his response to it. [It is possible that we will cover some of this material in class today.]
2) In Section 13 Chisholm discusses the idea that in at least some cases our desires "incline without necessitating." It seems clear that defenders of the theory of agency must say something like this. They must hold that our desires do not necessitate (i.e, cause) our actions. But it's clear that our desires have something to do with our actions. They aren't just irrelevant. So, the proposed solution is that they "incline" us to act. By the end of the essay Chisholm proposes an account of what this means. Explain and discuss his idea, using his example.
3) Present your own objection to Chisholm's theory.
Due: You can turn in an essay on this topic on Wednesday 11/5. It's possible that we will discuss (1) today. If we do, then if you pick that topic, you should have something to add to the discussion. We will not discuss (2) or (3) today. We will discuss them on Wednesday. You can wait until then, and then write something that builds upon our discussions.