Work

Causal theories of spacetime

Year: 2023

Type: article

Abstract: We develop a new version of the causal theory of spacetime. Whereas traditional versions of the theory seek to identify spatiotemporal relations with causal relations, the version we develop takes causal relations to be the grounds for spatiotemporal relations. Causation is thus distinct from, and more basic than, spacetime. We argue that this non‐identity theory, suitably developed, avoids the challenges facing the traditional identity theory.

Source: Noûs

DOI: 10.1111/nous.12449

Authors: Sam Baron, Baptiste Le Bihan

Institutions: Australian Catholic University, University of Geneva

Language: English

Topic: Philosophy and Theoretical Science

Subfield: Experimental and Cognitive Psychology

Field: Psychology

Domain: Social Sciences

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $2,630

Funders: National Science Foundation, Australian Catholic University, Schweizerischer Nationalfonds zur Förderung der Wissenschaftlichen Forschung, Australian Research Council