Time: Its Structure and Role in Physical TheoriesThis book on the structure and role of time in physical theories addresses itself to scientists and philosophers intereste: 'i in the 'no man's lard' between science and philosophy, in particular between physics and philoso- phy. The p: lint of departure is physical time, Le. time as usErl 1: physicists in their theories; but the analysis is not oonfined to a purely physical level but caries the problem into the domain of philosophical in- quiry. Altoough the book presupp: lses some knowledge of physics, I have avoided, wherever p: lssible, the use of advanced mathematics and technical details. Of all the people woo have been of help in writing this book, I w: >uld first of all like to mention Paul Scheurer and Guy Debrock who were my primary mentors in science and philosophy. This sttrly is a revision of my dissertation [Kroes 1982a] which I wrote under the stimulating guidance of Scheurer; many of the ideas ex- posed here have their origin in his w: >rk and were developErl in frequent discussions with him. Guy Debrock not only stimulated my interest in philosophy but also made valuable suggestions. Witoout any overstatement, I dare say that without their assistence, this book w: >uld never have been written. Furthernore, I w: >uld like to thank D. Dieks, J.J.C. |
Contents
Physical time and the problem of its structure | 1 |
paradox | 42 |
Notes | 52 |
Copyright | |
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asym asymmetric behaviour becomes branch systems causal theories classical mechanics corresponding cosmic time function defined definition description of physical determined dimensional discrete distinction between past dynamical Earman equilibrium equivalence relation Euclidean evolution fact flow fundamental future orientation geometrical given global Grünbaum H-theorem homeomorphic implies intervals irreversible processes law of phenomenological laws of physics Lorentz transformations macroscopic measured mechanical program metric minddependent Minkowski spacetime Newtonian spacetime number of dimensions objective observer occur one-dimensional orientable spacetime particle phase space phenomenological thermodynamics physical reality physicists point of view possible Prigogine principle problem quantum mechanics regard Reichenbach rela relativistic relativity theory reversal invariant role second law simultaneous spacetime formalism spacetime manifold standard statistical mechanical structure of physical Stueckelberg temporal order relation temporally orientable theorem theory of relativity thermodynamic time asymmetry thermodynamical program time-atoms timelike tion topological properties total order total temporal order trajectory ture twin paradox universe whereas worldlines