Actions and bodily movements

Abstract

In my last contribution to this review I showed why it was necessary to distinguish between particular actions and action-kinds. Failure to make this distinction, I argued, generates misunderstanding. One thesis which can lead to a great deal of perplexity, precisely on account of such failure, is Davidson's claim that actions are bodily movements. We can react to such a claim in different ways. We may say: "This cannot be a claim about all actions," and mention cases where it doesn't apply. I can carry out long sums in my head, stand to attention when told to, allow you to pass, decide to read a book tomorrow, lie perfectly motionless in bed. In all these cases I may be said to be engaged in some kind of action or activity, though my body can remain quite still.