The Philosophy of Time: Past, Present, Future
Exploring Different Perspectives on Time
Introduction
Overview
Today, we will explore the concept of time from different philosophical perspectives.
Goal
Understand how time is perceived differently by various cultures and thinkers.
Quote of the Day
"Time is an illusion." - Albert Einstein
What do you think Einstein meant by this and do you agree? How does this perspective influence our understanding of time?
Breakout Room Time: Introduction

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How would you define time?
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Do you think time is the same for everyone, or does it vary?
Video Introduction
To get started, let's watch a video from BBC Ideas titled "Why does time go forwards and not backwards." This video explains why time moves forward, focusing on the second law of thermodynamics and the concept of entropy.
You can access the video here:
Let's Watch!
Key Points from the Video
Time's Forward Motion
Time is a dimension like length, breadth, or height, but it only moves forward. This unidirectional flow is crucial to our understanding of time.
Second Law of Thermodynamics
The second law of thermodynamics states that entropy (disorder) always increases. This fundamental principle gives time its forward direction.
Entropy and Irreversibility
The concept of entropy helps explain why certain processes (like a cup breaking) are irreversible. This irreversibility is intrinsically linked to the forward flow of time.
Heat Death of the Universe
In the far future, the universe will reach a state of maximum entropy, known as the "heat death". This concept illustrates the long-term implications of increasing entropy.
Key Vocabulary from Video
Thermodynamics
The branch of physical science that deals with the relations between heat and other forms of energy.
Entropy
A measure of disorder or randomness in a system.
Irreversible
Impossible to reverse. Once something has happened it cannot be changed.
Dimension
An aspect or feature of a situation, problem, or thing.
Vocabulary Exercise
Complete sentences with the appropriate vocabulary word.
  • The second law of _______ states that entropy always increases.
  • The concept of _______ helps explain why certain processes (like a cup breaking) are _______.
  • Time is a _______ like length, breadth, or height, but it only moves forward.
Vocabulary Exercise Answers
  1. The second law of thermodynamics states that entropy always increases.
  1. The concept of entropy helps explain why certain processes (like a cup breaking) are irreversible.
  1. Time is a dimension like length, breadth, or height, but it only moves forward.
Breakout Room Time

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Question 1
How do you think our understanding of time influences our daily lives and decisions?
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Question 2
Can you think of any personal experiences where time seemed to move differently (either faster or slower)? What do you think caused that perception?
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Question 3
If time travel backwards and forwards were both possible, which would you choose and why?
Ancient Greek Philosophy of Time
Ancient Greek philosophers, particularly Aristotle, made significant contributions to our understanding of time. They viewed time as a sequence of events, intricately linked to the concepts of motion and change. This perspective was groundbreaking and laid the foundation for Western philosophical thought on time.
Aristotle's concept of time being connected to movement and change was particularly influential. He posited that time could not exist without change, and that our perception of time was intrinsically tied to our observation of motion in the world around us.
The importance of these early Greek ideas cannot be overstated. They provided a framework for understanding time that would shape philosophical discourse for centuries to come, influencing not only Western philosophy but also scientific thought.
Eastern Philosophy of Time
In Eastern philosophy, time is often seen as cyclical, with repeating patterns and endless cycles. This cyclical view contrasts sharply with the linear perspective of Western thought, offering a fundamentally different understanding of temporal progression.
The importance of this cyclical perspective cannot be overstated, as it shapes the entire worldview of many Eastern philosophical traditions. It influences not only how time is perceived but also how life, death, and existence itself are understood.
Examples of this cyclical time concept can be found in both Hinduism and Buddhism. In these traditions, time is viewed as an endless cycle of creation and destruction, with no true beginning or end. This perspective deeply influences their understanding of life, death, and rebirth.
Modern Philosophy of Time
Modern thinkers have revolutionised our understanding of time, with Albert Einstein's theory of relativity at the forefront of this paradigm shift. This groundbreaking perspective suggests that time is not absolute, but rather relative and can vary depending on the observer's speed and gravity.
  • Description: Einstein's theory of relativity challenges our conventional understanding of time
  • Importance: This perspective has significant implications for our understanding of the universe and reality
  • Examples: Einstein's theory of relativity and its impact on modern physics
Bergson's Concept of Time
Philosopher Henri Bergson made a profound distinction between two types of time: 'clock time' and 'lived time'. Clock time, as Bergson defined it, is quantitative and measurable. It's the time we see on our watches and calendars, ticking away in precise, uniform increments. On the other hand, lived time is qualitative and subjective, representing our personal experience of time's passage.
This distinction is of paramount importance as it emphasises the personal experience of time. It acknowledges that our perception of time isn't always aligned with its mechanical measurement. Bergson's concept highlights the difference between how we objectively measure time and how we subjectively experience it.
To illustrate this concept, consider the difference between how time is measured in seconds and minutes, and how it is experienced through moments and memories. For instance, an hour spent in an engaging conversation might feel like it passes in the blink of an eye, while a minute of waiting in a queue can seem to drag on endlessly. These examples demonstrate the stark contrast between clock time and lived time.
Optional Creative Activity
Task
Write a short essay or narrative describing your own perception of time. Incorporate philosophical concepts discussed in the lesson.
Movie recommendation: About Time (2013)
To finish off, I'd like to recommend this wonderful and touching movie related to today's topic which is titled About Time. The story follows a young man's journey following his discovery that he has the ability to go back in time and change past events in his life…