Saudek, Daniel (2017) Beyond A-Theory and the Block Universe: A non-circular derivation of “before”, change, and local asymmetric time. [Preprint]

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Abstract

This article proposes a “third way” in the philosophy of time beyond A-theory and the block universe, in which time is understood as a purely local phenomenon. It does so by starting with simple metaphysical assumptions about substances and their properties. Based on these assumptions, the notions of “before”, of change, and of time as a local quantification of change can be derived non-circularly, i.e. without invoking temporal concepts. I then proceed to prove the irreversibility of local time by showing that the propositional content of the local past cannot be changed, since this would imply a contradiction, whereas that of the future can. Time’s familiar asymmetric character, in particular the difference between the fixed past and the open or “branching” future, is therefore a non-illusory but purely local phenomenon. Such a model requires no past-present-future distinction valid for the entire cosmos, and is therefore consistent with special and general relativity. The article furthermore explores the implications of this model for the notion of an evolving universe.

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Item Type:	Preprint
Creators:	Creators Email ORCID Saudek, Daniel daniel.saudek@uibk.ac.at 0000-0002-1393-5791
Keywords:	time asymmetry, block universe, A-theory, causal theory of time, branching future, relativity theory
Subjects:	General Issues > Causation Specific Sciences > Physics > Cosmology Specific Sciences > Physics > Relativity Theory
Depositing User:	Dr. Daniel Saudek
Date Deposited:	22 Aug 2017 18:58
Last Modified:	22 Aug 2017 18:58
Item ID:	13346
Subjects:	General Issues > Causation Specific Sciences > Physics > Cosmology Specific Sciences > Physics > Relativity Theory
Date:	15 July 2017
URI:	https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/id/eprint/13346

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• Beyond A-Theory and the Block Universe: A non-circular derivation of “before”, change, and local asymmetric time. (deposited 22 Aug 2017 18:58) [Currently Displayed]
  • Beyond A-Theory and the Block Universe: A non-circular derivation of “before”, change, and the local arrow of time. (deposited 08 Mar 2018 16:26)

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