Intention vs. Motive

Attribute	Intention	Motive
Definition	The aim or plan to achieve a specific outcome.	The underlying reason or purpose behind an action.
Consciousness	Intention is often a conscious decision or thought.	Motive can be conscious or unconscious.
Focus	Intention is directed towards achieving a goal.	Motive is focused on the underlying reason for the action.
Volition	Intention involves a voluntary choice or decision.	Motive can be driven by external factors or internal desires.
Outcome	Intention is often associated with the desired outcome.	Motive may not necessarily be linked to the outcome.
Transparency	Intention can be communicated or expressed.	Motive may not always be openly shared or known.
Subjectivity	Intention can vary based on individual perspectives.	Motive can also be subjective, influenced by personal beliefs or values.

Introduction

When it comes to understanding human behavior and decision-making, two important concepts that often come into play are intention and motive. While these terms are often used interchangeably, they have distinct attributes that set them apart. In this article, we will explore the differences between intention and motive, examining their definitions, characteristics, and how they influence our actions.

Defining Intention

Intention refers to a conscious mental state or purpose that guides our actions. It is the deliberate plan or aim that we have in mind when we engage in a particular behavior. Intentions are typically driven by our desires, goals, or objectives, and they play a crucial role in shaping our behavior and decision-making processes.

For example, if someone intends to lose weight, they may set a goal to exercise regularly and eat a balanced diet. This intention acts as a guiding force, influencing their choices and actions in pursuit of their desired outcome.

Characteristics of Intention

Intention possesses several key characteristics that distinguish it from motive:

1. Consciousness: Intention is a conscious mental state, meaning that it is within our awareness and under our control. We are aware of our intentions and can actively choose to act upon them.
2. Volition: Intention is driven by our own will and volition. It arises from our personal desires, goals, and motivations, reflecting our individual agency and autonomy.
3. Future-oriented: Intention is forward-looking, focusing on future actions and outcomes. It involves planning and setting goals for what we want to achieve or accomplish in the future.
4. Subjective: Intention is subjective and varies from person to person. It is influenced by our unique perspectives, values, and beliefs, making it a highly personal aspect of our decision-making process.
5. Flexible: Intention can be flexible and adaptable. It can change based on new information, circumstances, or shifts in our desires and goals.

Defining Motive

Motive, on the other hand, refers to the underlying reason or driving force behind our actions. It is the psychological or emotional factor that compels us to behave in a certain way. Motives are often deeply rooted in our needs, desires, or fears, and they provide the impetus for our behavior.

For instance, if someone donates money to a charitable organization, their motive may be driven by a genuine desire to help others, a sense of empathy, or a need for social recognition. These motives influence their decision to donate and shape the meaning behind their action.

Characteristics of Motive

Motive possesses distinct characteristics that differentiate it from intention:

• Unconsciousness: Unlike intention, motive can often operate at an unconscious or subconscious level. We may not always be fully aware of the underlying motives that drive our behavior.
• Emotional: Motive is often rooted in our emotions, desires, and needs. It can be driven by a range of emotions such as love, fear, anger, or a sense of belonging.
• Historical: Motive can be influenced by our past experiences, upbringing, and social conditioning. It may be shaped by our cultural, familial, or societal influences.
• Fixed: Motive tends to be relatively stable and consistent over time. It may be deeply ingrained within us and can persistently influence our behavior across different situations.
• Unconscious: Motive can often operate at an unconscious or subconscious level. We may not always be fully aware of the underlying motives that drive our behavior.

Influence on Behavior

Both intention and motive play significant roles in shaping our behavior, but they do so in different ways:

Intention primarily guides our conscious decision-making processes. It acts as a cognitive roadmap, directing our attention, thoughts, and actions towards achieving a specific goal or outcome. Intention provides a sense of purpose and direction, helping us prioritize our actions and make choices that align with our desired objectives.

Motive, on the other hand, operates at a deeper level, often outside our conscious awareness. It can influence our behavior by tapping into our emotions, desires, and needs. Motives can be powerful drivers of action, compelling us to act in ways that fulfill our psychological or emotional requirements.

While intention and motive can sometimes align, they can also diverge. For example, someone may have the intention to exercise regularly to improve their health, but their underlying motive may be driven by a desire for physical attractiveness or societal approval. In such cases, the intention and motive may not be fully congruent, leading to potential conflicts or inconsistencies in behavior.

Conclusion

In summary, intention and motive are two distinct concepts that influence our behavior and decision-making processes. Intention refers to our conscious mental state or purpose, driven by our desires, goals, and objectives. It is future-oriented, flexible, and within our conscious control. On the other hand, motive represents the underlying reason or driving force behind our actions, often rooted in our emotions, desires, and needs. It can operate at an unconscious level and be influenced by our past experiences and social conditioning.

While intention guides our conscious decision-making processes, motive taps into our emotions and desires, compelling us to act in certain ways. Understanding the differences between intention and motive can provide valuable insights into human behavior, helping us navigate our own actions and better comprehend the motivations behind the actions of others.