Intentionalen

Intentionalen is a term that can refer to a few related concepts, primarily in the context of deliberate action and mental states. In philosophy, intentionality is the property of mental states, such as beliefs, desires, and judgments, by which they are directed toward or are about something. This "aboutness" means that a thought or feeling is not just a sensation but has content that refers to an object, a state of affairs, or a concept. For example, the belief that the sky is blue is intentional because it is about the sky.

The concept of intentionality was significantly developed by philosopher Franz Brentano, who argued that intentionality is the defining characteristic of all conscious mental phenomena. He distinguished between physical phenomena, which lack intentionality, and psychical phenomena, which possess it.

In everyday language, "intentional" describes something that is done on purpose, with a clear aim or objective. An intentional act is one that is consciously willed and not accidental. For instance, if someone intentionally drops a glass, they meant to do it, as opposed to dropping it by mistake. This usage highlights the role of volition and conscious decision-making in an action. The term can also be applied to describe an approach or strategy that is designed with a specific outcome in mind, such as an intentional community that is formed with shared values and goals.