Time and time travel

Abstract

This work is an exploration of the idea of time travel in relation to general theories of time. It is neither a defence nor a repudiation of time travel, but seeks to find ultimate ground for the plausibility of the idea. Consequently it attempts to set up the concept of time travel as securely as possible, and does so by emphasising that travel has ultimately an analogical sense. Having thus established time travel without the supposition of any general theory of time, the work goes on to consider general theories of time in order to locate the idea of time travel within them. Of special interest is the theory of space-time, which is eminently suited to the idea of time travel. My concern there is not however with the establishment of time travel, but rather with the conflict between the philosophy of space-time and the philosophy which bases the theory of time on the nature of the human experience of it. The character of the opposition between these philosophies renders them complementary and consequently one or other should be capable of excluding time travel. The conclusion is that the plausibility of time travel rests on the fact that neither of these philosophies is capable of excluding time travel on general metaphysical or epistemological grounds. In finishing the work discusses the facts and logic of human power and knowledge, and points to the possible existence of a general epistemological principle the lack of which is the reason for the survival of time travel.