Time, Change and Freedom - An Introduction to Metaphysics

Quentin Smith, L. Nathan Oaklander

Routledge

2005

227 páginas

7h 34m

ISBN-10: B000OI0TXQ

This is no ordinary introduction to metaphysics. Written for the most part in an engaging dialogue style, it covers metaphysical topics from a student’s perspective and introduces key concepts through a process of explanation, reformulation, and critique. Focusing on the philosophy of time, the dialogues cover such topics as the beginning and end of time, the nature of change and personal identity, and the relation of human freedom to theories of fatalism, divine foreknowledge and determinism. Each dialogue closes with a glossary of key terms and suggestions for further reading. Time, Change and Freedom concludes with a discussion of the metaphysical implications of Einstein’s theory of relativity and a review of contemporary theories of time and the universe. Written throughout in an accessible, non-technical style, Time, Change and Freedom is an ideal introduction to the key themes of contemporary metaphysics. It will be invaluable for all students on introductory philosophy courses as well as for those interested in metaphysics and the philosophy of time.