Ep. 214 - The Wave Theory of Time and Time Travel Implications w/Dr. Nikk Effingham
Jan 7, 2023
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Dr. Nikk Effingham, a philosopher specializing in the ontology of time and time travel, dives into his innovative wave theory of time. He draws distinctions between presentism and eternalism, reshaping our understanding of temporal reality. The discussion unveils the complexities of personal identity, exploring how time travel challenges our concepts of existence and morality. Effingham also tackles ethical dilemmas surrounding 'personites' and the potential consequences of altering timelines, stimulating thought on the responsibilities of hypothetical time travelers.
Wave theory redefines the nature of existence by asserting that only the present constitutes identity, casting doubt on historical permanence.
The podcast explores complex theories of time travel that suggest practical challenges and paradoxes may render it unlikely to be realized.
Discussions of time travel highlight moral implications of altering past events, raising questions about personal agency and identity across temporal boundaries.
Deep dives
Understanding Time and Ontology
Time is conceptualized as a dimension that orders events, similar to how spatial dimensions order locations. This raises questions about the nature of time in relation to ontology, or the study of what exists. Different perspectives on time, such as presentism, eternalism, and the moving spotlight theory, offer varied understandings of existence across time. For instance, eternalists argue that past, present, and future events co-exist, whereas presentists contend that only current events are real.
Exploring Time Travel Theories
The podcast discusses various theories of time travel, particularly David Lewis's view, which posits that traveling back in time does not allow for changing past events. This notion leads to implications regarding causality and the consistency of time. Theories are further explored, such as hyper-time, which introduces a second dimension to time, allowing for alternate outcomes without contradicting historical events. The complexities of these theories suggest that while time travel may be theoretically possible, practical challenges and paradoxes likely prevent its occurrence.
Wave Theory: A New Perspective
Wave theory emerges as a new contribution to the discourse on temporal ontology, suggesting a distinction between constituted objects at different temporal slices. Rather than asserting the permanence of past figures like Napoleon, wave theory argues that only the current present constitutes identity, thereby negating the existence of the past as it was. This creates a dynamic view of existence where both time and identity are fluid concepts subject to interpretation. The implications of this theory raise interesting discussions around the continuity of self and the nature of moral responsibility.
Consequences of Time Travel on Existence
Time travel raises intricate questions about existence during and after temporal transitions, particularly regarding causal loops and moral implications. For instance, if a time traveler prevents a significant historical event, they inadvertently alter their own existence, leading to questions about the self and identity. The discussion extends to the moral status of related entities, or 'personites,' that exist in previous times but lack contemporary acknowledgment. This interplay indicates a complex relationship between time, personal agency, and ethical considerations in hypothetical scenarios.
The Unlikelihood of Time Travel
Despite intriguing theoretical frameworks, the podcast concludes that the probability of successful time travel remains exceedingly low. Even if theories suggest it is possible, various factors—including causal consistency and potential paradoxes—would likely prevent it from happening in reality. The idea cautions that the pursuit of time travel technology may be inherently flawed, signaling profound repercussions for those who attempt it. Ultimately, this underscores a broader philosophical discourse on the rationality of engaging with speculative technologies.
In this episode of the Parker's Pensées Podcast, I'm joined by Dr. Nikk Effingham to discuss his particular take on the ontology of time, called wave theory, and he helps me think through implications for time travel.
Find more of Dr. Effingham's work here: https://nikkeffingham.weebly.com/
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