action

behavior

Also known as: act

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Last updated

July 23, 2026

Quick Summary

Behavior refers to the way an individual conducts themselves. This encompasses a wide range of actions, from observable conduct and demeanor to more subtle aspects like attitude and manners. In ethology, behavior is studied as a hierarchical organization of actions, often driven by motivational impulses. These impulses can lead to specific sequences of behavior, culminating in a "fixed action pattern" or a "consummatory act". Action theory, a subfield of philosophy, distinguishes between things that happen to a person and things they actively do, exploring concepts like volition, intention, and free will. Psychology also examines individual acts, focusing on their meaning and intent, a perspective known as act psychology.12345

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applied logic
Deontic logic and the logic of agency
…make sure that r; instrumental action E(x,m,r,), where x sees to it that r by means of m; and purposive action, A(x,r,p), where x sees to it that r for the purpose that p.
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…make sure that r; instrumental action E(x,m,r,), where x sees to it that r by means of m; and purposive action, A(x,r,p), where x sees to it that r for the purpose that p.
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Wang Yangming
Political and military career
…epoch-making theory: that knowledge and action are one (zhixing heyi). One knows filial piety (xiao), he argued, only when one acts upon it, and correct action requires correct knowledge. As a magistrate in Jiangxi in 1510, he carried out many reforms, including a novel “joint registration system” whereby 10 families…
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…epoch-making theory: that knowledge and action are one (zhixing heyi). One knows filial piety (xiao), he argued, only when one acts upon it, and correct action requires correct knowledge. As a magistrate in Jiangxi in 1510, he carried out many reforms, including a novel “joint registration system” whereby 10 families…
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collective behavior
Rumor-creating situations
…lack of an occasion for action. During states of boredom, rumor capitalizes on minor events, magnifying them into occasions for exciting collective action.
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…lack of an occasion for action. During states of boredom, rumor capitalizes on minor events, magnifying them into occasions for exciting collective action.
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