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Some central problems in the philosophy of space and time

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La philosophie contemporaine / Contemporary philosophy

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Abstract

In the period since the last appearance of these Chronicles, the philosophy of space and time has flourished. This may be measured not only by the quantity but also by the quality of its output. Numerous young philosophers have made significant contributions to the literature, and one is struck by their technical acumen. Most researchers in the field are able to move freely between the literature of philosophy and that of physics. The artificial barrier that developed between these allied disciplines has been irrevocably breached. Consequently, I hope that not too many readers will find undue license in my decision to focus my review primarily on the philosophy of spacetime (cf. Earman [1]). The exigencies of space and time prevent me from discussing all of the many fundamental issues that have arisen in this field. Accordingly, I propose to deal with three important problem areas which seem to be of foundational significance. In the first place, a philosophical understanding of relativistic spacetime requires an elucidation of the precise status and role of a principle of relativity in a physical theory.

I wish to take this opportunity to acknowledge the grace and alacrity with which Adolf Grünbaum interrupted his busy schedule on more than one occasion in response to my request for advice and information in connection with the preparation of this article. Needless to say, he is in no way responsible for its form or content.

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  1. Concordia University, Montreal, Canada

    Roger B. Angel

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  1. Roger B. Angel
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  1. University of Oslo, Norway

    Guttorm Fløistad

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© 1982 Martinus Nijhoff Publishers, The Hague/Boston/London

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Angel, R.B. (1982). Some central problems in the philosophy of space and time. In: Fløistad, G. (eds) La philosophie contemporaine / Contemporary philosophy. International Institute of Philosophy / Institut International de Philosophie, vol 2. Springer, Dordrecht. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-94-010-9940-0_10

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-94-010-9940-0_10

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