Full Idea
Davidson argues that the best interpretation of the teleological character of reason explanations is an intepretation in causal terms.
Gist of Idea
The best explanation of reasons as purposes for actions is that they are causal
Source
report of Donald Davidson (Action, Reasons and Causes [1963]) by Michael Smith - The Moral Problem 4.4
Book Reference
Smith,Michael: 'The Moral Problem' [Blackwell 1994], p.103
A Reaction
That is, this is the explanation of someone doing something 'because' they have this reason (rather than happening to have a reason). Smith observes that other mental states (such as beliefs) may also have this causal power.