A Companion to the Philosophy of Time

"This is an indispensable collection of articles on the philosophy of time. Its contributors illuminate every major aspect of it and its history. I can think of no better guide to the subject." Hugh Mellor, University of Cambridge

"In this exceptional collection of original essays, Adrian Bardon and Heather Dyke have put together a volume that makes an invaluable and lasting contribution to the philosophy of time." L. Nathan Oaklander, University of Michigan-Flint

"Summing Up: Recommended. Upper-division undergraduates, graduate students, and faculty." Choice

The philosophy of time has been a central area of concern for philosophers for thousands of years. It remains one of the most active areas of academic philosophy, but the study of time has never been more dynamic and interdisciplinary than now. A Companion to the Philosophy of Time presents the broadest coverage of this subject yet; 32 specially commissioned articles – written by an international line-up of experts – span the history of the philosophy of time, contemporary philosophical issues in the nature and reality of time, and contemporary philosophical issues in the experience and perception of time.

The Companion takes a tripartite approach in its structure; the first section features essays on the development of the philosophy of time from the pre-Socratic period through the 20th century, and comprises a unique collection of essays devoted to the history of the philosophy of time. The second and third sections are divided into reflections on the physics and metaphysics of time, and the human experience of time. Throughout the Companion, essays reflect the close partnership between philosophy and the natural sciences in the study of time. The resulting work provides an unparalleled work of reference for students and specialists alike in this exciting field.