Why we cannot change the past

with Kadri Vihvelin

Abstract
Causation requires (at least the possibility of) contingent counterfactual dependence between events at different times. Contingent counterfactual dependence requires logically irreversible laws connecting those events. But logically irreversible laws only give you contingent counterfactual dependence in one direction. Thus, contingent counterfactual dependence between events is temporally asymmetric. Our actual laws are logically irreversible. Thus, causation is temporally asymmetric.
Presented at “Free Will Physics and Metaphysics” conference. Rutgers University, May 12th,2022

Presented at the “Free Will Physics and Metaphysics” conference. Rutgers University, May 12th,2022

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