The main debates in the philosophy of time have centred on whether A-theory, with events ordered by pastness, presentness and futurity, or B-theory, ordered by earlier than or later than, are equally fundamental. Emiliano Boccardi, L. Nathan Oaklander and Erwin Tegtmeier instead uphold the Russellian theory, or R-theory, and consider not only the fundamental differences but also its superiority. They argue McTaggart's misinterpretation of Russell has led to a false dichotomy between the A- and B-theories, while exploring the connection between temporal relations, temporal facts and time.
In defence of the R-theory, they argue how it offers a metaphysical explanation of the nature of time, in addition to investigating whether ontological theories of time can be considered from a moral or existential point of view. Using an ontological approach, this volume clarifies what is mistaken about both theories can only be resolved by adopting a Russellian philosophy, reaching beyond the A-theory vs B-theory debate.
An original new defence of the Russellian theory of time that reaches beyond established debates and makes the case for an alternative approach.Arvustused
This clearly written, fascinating study consolidates earlier work and goes further, returning to pivotal texts within the history of philosophy of time, and advancing new ideas about that thorniest of topics - time. -- Emily Thomas, Professor of Philosophy, Durham University, UK Three well-known philosophers of time and ontologists have joined forces to offer a very original and deep-searching defense of a Russellian approach to temporal matters. This is a most welcome contribution to the current lively debate on time in analytic philosophy. It deserves the highest consideration. -- Francesco Orilia, University of Macerata, Italy
Muu info
An original new defence of the Russellian theory of time that reaches beyond established debates and makes the case for an alternative approach.
Preface
Introduction
Part I What is the R-theory?
1. On the Difference between Temporal Ontology and the Ontology of Time. - E.
Boccardi and L. N. Oaklander
2. Does Analytic Philosophy Rest on a Mistake? - L. N. Oaklander
3. The Senseless Direction of Time: The Ontology of Temporal Relations. - E.
Boccardi
4. A Russellian Ontology of Time - E. Tegtmeier
5. McTaggarts Error: Temporal Change - E. Tegtmeier
6. Three Flawed Distinctions in the Philosophy of Time - E. Tegtmeier
Part II A Defense of the R-theory
7. The Intelligibility of the R-theory - L. N. Oaklander
8. The Mind-Independence of Passage - L. N. Oaklander
9. Be Careful What You Wish For: A Reply to Craig - L. N. Oaklander
10. An R-theoretic Critique of (Moderate) Presentism - L. N. Oaklander
11. The Alleged Moral Desirability of Presentism? - L. N. Oaklander
Conclusion
Appendix: On the Experience of Time B. Russell
Emiliano Boccardi is Visiting Professor at the Federal University of Bahia, Brazil. L. Nathan Oaklander is Professor Emeritus of Philosophy at the University of Michigan-Flint, USA. Erwin Tegtmeier is Professor of Philosophy at the University of Mannheim, Germany.
