Synthesized answer
The author, Christine M. Korsgaard, draws on the work of Plato, Aristotle, and Kant to propose that the function of an action is to constitute the agency and identity of the person performing it [1, 2, 3]. As rational beings, humans control the principles governing their actions [2]. A good action is one that makes its agent an autonomous and efficacious cause of her own movements, corresponding to Kant's categorical and hypothetical imperatives, respectively [2]. By determining the effects they will have on the world, individuals also determine their own identities [2].
Korsgaard develops a theory of action and interaction, arguing that integrity, which is essential for agency, dictates the form interaction must take [2]. Based on this theory, she contends that only morally good actions can fulfill the function of action, which is self-constitution [2]. The author's argument relies on understanding what constitutes an action as good or bad of its kind, similar to understanding what makes a heart good by knowing its function is to pump blood [3].
Synthesized from the book passages below. Chat with the book on Feynman for follow-up.
From the book
Snippet: Drawing on the work of Plato, Aristotle, and Kant, Korsgaard proposes that the function of an action is to. constitute the agency and therefore the identity of the person who does it.
wing on the work of Plato, Aristotle, and Kant, Korsgaard proposes that the function of an action is to. constitute the agency and therefore the identity of the person who does it. As rational beings, we are aware of, and therefore in control of, the principles that govern our actions. A good action is one that constitutes its agent as the autonomous and efficacious cause of her own movements. These properties correspond, respectively, to Kant's two imperatives of practical reason. Conformity to the categorical imperative renders us autonomous, and conformity to the hypothetical imperative.…
Title: Self-Constitution by Christine M. Korsgaard Description: Christine M. Korsgaard presents an account of the foundation of practical reason and moral obligation, based on a new theory of action and interaction. She proposes that the function of an action is to constitute the agency and therefore the identity of the person who does it, and that only morally good action can serve this function. -;Christine M. Korsgaard presents an account of the foundation of practical reason and moral obligation. Moral philosophy aspires to understand the fact that human actions, unlike the actions of…