Single Idea 24108

[catalogued under 20. Action / A. Definition of Action / 1. Action Theory]

Full Idea

What is the source of actions? For what purpose? …People do not act for happiness, utility or pleasure. Rather, a certain amount of force is released. Seizes on something on which it can vent itself. 'Goal' and 'purpose' are the means for this process.

Gist of Idea

Actions are just a release of force. They seize on something, which becomes the purpose

Source

Friedrich Nietzsche (Unpublished Notebooks 1882-84 [1883], 7[077])

Book Reference

Nietzsche,Friedrich: 'Fragments from the period of 'Zarathustra' (v 14)', ed/tr. Loeb/Tinsley [Stanford 2019], p.240


A Reaction

Surprised at how little Nietzsche is discussed in modern theoretical accounts of action. I'm not sure what the evolutionary value might be of a blind force that produces action before its purpose has been decided. Not convinced. What triggers the force?