Full Idea
The causal theory of action asserts that what characterises intentional action is the agent's intentions, or perhaps their beliefs and desires, causing their behaviour in the appropriate way.
Gist of Idea
The causal theory says that actions are intentional when intention (or belief-desire) causes the act
Source
Rowland Stout (Action [2005], 1 'Outline')
Book Reference
Stout,Rowland: 'Action' [Acumen 2005], p.13
A Reaction
The agent's intentions are either sui generis (see Bratman), or reducible to beliefs and desires (as in Hume). The classic problem for the causal theory is said to be 'deviant causal chains'.
Related Idea
Idea 20062 If a desire leads to a satisfactory result by an odd route, the causal theory looks wrong [Chisholm]