Popper on the Arrow of Time
(1986) Manuscrito : revista internacional de filosofia — Vol. 9, p. 77-94 (1986)
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- Authors
Ghins, Michel 
- Abstract
- Popper claims that statistical thermodynamical ("non-classical") processes are unable to endow time with an arrow and proposes the impossibility of the spontaneous occurrence of the appropriate boundary conditions necessary for the production of the reversal of a non-statistical ("classical") process (the expansion of waves from a center) as the source of temporary asymmetry. it is argued that popper's proposal is no more satisfactory than boltzmann's, reichenbach's and grunbaum's purported solutions of the problem of anisotropy of time based on the behavior of thermodynamical systems. it is also shown that the elimination by hill and grunbaum of popper's spontaneity proviso cannot be accepted. finally, it is argued "pace" popper that the thesis of the mind-dependence of becoming advocated by mctaggart, boltzmann and grunbaum is not incompatible with a realistic conception of the arrow of time in the sense of anisotropy.
- Affiliations
Citations
Ghins, M. (1986). Popper on the Arrow of Time. Manuscrito : revista internacional de filosofia, 9, 77-94. https://hdl.handle.net/2078.5/157890 (Original work published 1986)