Time

Philosophical thinking about time is characterised by tensions between competing conceptions. Different sources of evidence yield different conclusions about it. Common sense suggests there is an objective present, and that time is dynamic. Science recognises neither feature. This Element examines McTaggart's argument for the unreality of time, which epitomises this tension, showing how it gave rise to the A-theory/B-theory debate. Each theory is in tension with either ordinary or scientific thinking, so must accommodate the competing conception. Reconciling the A-theory with science does not look promising. Prospects look better for the B-theory's attempt to accommodate ordinary thinking about time.

List of contents

1. What is Puzzling About Time?; 2. Methodology in the Philosophy of Time; 3. McTaggart and His Legacy; 4. The A-Theory; 5. The B-Theory; 6. Explaining Temporal Experience; 7. Concluding Remarks.

Summary

Philosophical thinking about time is characterised by tensions between competing conceptions. Common sense suggests there is an objective present, and that time is dynamic. Science recognises neither feature. This Element examines McTaggart's argument for the unreality of time.

Product details

• Authors: Heather Dyke, Heather (University of Otago Dyke, Dyke Heather
• Publisher: Cambridge University Press ELT
• Languages: English
• Product format: Paperback / Softback
• Released: 31.12.2021
• EAN: 9781108940726
• ISBN: 978-1-108-94072-6
• No. of pages: 75
• Series: Elements in Metaphysics
• Subjects: Fiction > Gift books, albums, perpetual calendars, postcard booklets; Non-fiction book > Philosophy, religion > Philosophy: general, reference works; PHILOSOPHY / Epistemology, Philosophy: epistemology & theory of knowledge, Philosophy: epistemology and theory of knowledge