---
title: "Momentum over Motive"
description: "Sherman's working principle for explaining auto-processes: action is determined by accumulated system mass and inertia (momentum) rather than by purpose or hidden intention (motive)."
type: "glossary-term"
canonical_url: "https://antikythera.wiki/terms/momentum-over-motive"
md_url: "https://antikythera.wiki/md/terms/momentum-over-motive"
last_updated: "2026-09-06"
site: "Antikythera Wiki"
---

# Momentum over Motive

> A working definition written for this wiki from the reading notes; not Antikythera's own wording. From Antikythera Wiki (https://antikythera.wiki/terms/momentum-over-motive), an independent guide to Antikythera's published work.

Sherman's working principle for explaining auto-processes: action is determined by accumulated system mass and inertia (momentum) rather than by purpose or hidden intention (motive). Derived from the automaton's two deceptions (von Windisch's *via motrix*, concealed power, and *via directrix*, predetermined direction), Riskin on externally constructed volition, and Marey on motility without intent. Consequences: an agent following its momentum can undermine its own species; autopoietic systems model success on themselves and cannot see cascades (road by road to the asphalt planet); the automotive complex cannot imagine its own outmoding, only catastrophe. Different term, same work as Agüera y Arcas's dynamic stability (persistence without purpose).

## Appears in

- [What Is Intelligence?](https://antikythera.wiki/work/book/what-is-intelligence) (2025-09-23)
- [AUTO–](https://antikythera.wiki/work/journal/auto) (2025-05-10)

_Glossary generated 2026-09-06._