The Perceptual Sense of Agency
Gabriel Siegel
Review of Philosophy and Psychology November 11, 2025 DOI: 10.1007/s13164-025-00788-7 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Theoretical or philosophical paper Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Topics | Philosophy of mind |
| Keywords | Perception Agency philosophy Sense of agency Philosophy of science Mode computer interface Common sense Cognitive psychology Epistemology Sensory system Process computing Mechanism biology |
| Key points | Argues that the perceptual sense of agency is best understood as an intentional mode rather than as specific contents represented in perceptual experience. |
Abstract
Abstract The sense of agency is the experience of predicting, initiating, or controlling actions. In this paper, I provide a novel account of the sense of agency that appears in perceptual consciousness. I follow theorists such as Bayne and Prinz in suggesting that the perceptual sense of agency (PSoA) is underpinned by self-monitoring processes. The self-monitoring mechanism compares sensory predictions, made on the basis of motor commands, with sensory feedback. This comparison process distinguishes self-caused from other-caused perceptual changes. I argue for a view where the PSoA is not explained by certain contents represented in perceptual experience. Rather, my account models the PSoA as a type of intentional mode that perceivers bear to contents. After defending this view, I respond to objections and contrast my account with others in the literature.
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Citations in the library
Cites 6
- Mental Paint and Mental Latex Philosophical Issues 1996
- ATTENTION AND MENTAL PAINT 1 Philosophical Issues October 1, 2010
- A Multisensory Philosophy of Perception February 12, 2020
- The experience of acting and the structure of consciousness. The Journal of Philosophy August 1, 2017
- Measures of agency. Neuroscience of Consciousness 2020
and 1 more in the library