Agency
What Is Agency?
Definition
Agency
Agency refers to the capacity of an individual to act intentionally and make choices.
It is a fundamental concept in philosophy, particularly in discussions about personhood, morality, and free will.
- Intentionality: Actions are guided by intentions or goals.
- Autonomy: The ability to act independently of external control.
- Responsibility: Agents are often held accountable for their actions.
- Agency is not limited to humans.
- Philosophers debate whether animals, machines, or even corporations can possess agency.
Agency and Personhood
Definition
Personhood
Personhood is often linked to agency, as being a person typically implies having the capacity to act intentionally and make choices.
- Rationality: Many philosophers argue that rational decision-making is a key aspect of agency.
- Moral Responsibility: Persons are often seen as moral agents, capable of being held accountable for their actions.
- Self-Awareness: The ability to reflect on one's actions and intentions is often considered a hallmark of personhood.
- In Kantian ethics, agency is closely tied to autonomy and rationality.
- Kant argues that moral agents must be capable of acting according to universal moral laws, which requires rational deliberation and self-governance.
Agency in Animals and Machines
The question of whether animals or machines can possess agency is a topic of ongoing philosophical debate.
- Animals:
- Some animals exhibit goal-directed behavior and problem-solving abilities.
