New Directions in the Russellian Theory of Time - by Emiliano Boccardi & L Nathan Oaklander & Erwin Tegtmeier (Hardcover)
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Highlights
- 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.
- About the Author: Emiliano Boccardi is Visiting Professor at the Federal University of Bahia, Brazil.
- 264 Pages
- Philosophy, Epistemology
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Book Synopsis
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.Review Quotes
"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, ItalyAbout the Author
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.
