Motive and Intention: An Essay in the Appreciation of Action

Motive and Intention is a critique of conceptual foundations of human action description and judgment, using narrative history to provide an independent base for appraising theoretical presumptions. It illuminates persistent issues of common interest in social science.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 152 pages
Publication date: 30 December 2019
Publisher: Northwestern University Press

Motive and Intention is a comprehensive critique of the conceptual foundations underlying the description and judgment of human action. Drawing upon a diverse range of sources, including narrative history, Roy Lawrence delves into a critical analysis of various examples of such assessments, offering an independent basis for appraising familiar and enduring theoretical presumptions. Through this insightful exploration, Lawrence sheds light on a multitude of persistent and intriguing issues of common interest within the realm of social science.

The book begins by examining the nature of human motivation and intention, challenging traditional notions of rational choice and examining the role of emotions, values, and cultural norms in shaping our actions. Lawrence then explores the complexities of moral judgment, examining how individuals perceive and evaluate the moral implications of different actions. He also examines the role of power and social structures in shaping human behavior, highlighting the ways in which social hierarchies, cultural norms, and economic inequalities can influence our actions and perceptions.

Throughout the book, Lawrence employs a rigorous analytical approach, drawing upon a wide range of theoretical frameworks and empirical evidence to support his arguments. He critically examines the assumptions and biases inherent in traditional approaches to the study of human behavior, challenging the notion that individuals are purely rational actors and emphasizing the role of subjective experiences and cultural contexts in shaping our actions.

Motive and Intention is a thought-provoking and insightful book that offers valuable insights into the complex nature of human behavior. It is a must-read for scholars and researchers interested in the fields of sociology, psychology, and social policy, as well as anyone who seeks to better understand the motivations and intentions behind human actions.

Weight: 204g
Dimension: 154 x 229 x 6 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780810139572