New Directions in the Russellian Theory of Time: Metaphysical and Ontological Investigations

By Emiliano Boccardi, Erwin Tegtmeier, L. Nathan Oaklander

The main debates in the philosophy of time have centred on whether A-theory, with events ordered by pastness, presentness and futurity, or B-theory, ordered by earlier than or later than, are equally fundamental. Emiliano Boccardi, L. Nathan Oaklander and Erwin Tegtmeier instead uphold the Russellian theory, or R-theory, and consider not only the fundamental differences but also its superiority. They argue McTaggart's misinterpretation of Russell has led to a false dichotomy between the A- and B-theories, while exploring the connection between temporal relations, temporal facts and time.

In defence of the R-theory, they argue how it offers a metaphysical explanation of the nature of time, in addition to investigating whether ontological theories of time can be considered from a moral or existential point of view. Using an ontological approach, this volume clarifies what is mistaken about both theories can only be resolved by adopting a Russellian philosophy, reaching beyond the A-theory vs B-theory debate.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1350339881
• ISBN13: 9781350339880
• Release Date: June 2026
• Publisher: Bloomsbury Academic
• Length: 264 Pages
• Weight: 1.00 lbs.
• Dimensions: 1.0" x 6.1" x 9.2"