The Language of Time

by Richard M. Gale

Overview

First published in 1968, The Language of Time clarifies certain large-scale features of ordinary or common-sense concept of time by using linguistic analysis or ordinary language philosophy. The author does so by studying the language of time in its everyday employment. The book is divided into four parts. Part one explores McTaggart’s paradox and the language of time. Part two is devoted to A-Determinations and B-Relations and discusses the most central issue separating the A and B theories—the relation between tensed and tenseless discourse. Part three examines the logical asymmetries between the Past and the Future and Part four deals with the concept of temporal becoming. This book will be of interest to students and researchers of philosophy.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781032984919
Publisher:	Taylor & Francis
Publication date:	09/01/2025
Series:	Routledge Revivals
Pages:	258
Product dimensions:	6.12(w) x 9.19(h) x (d)

About the Author

Richard M. Gale was an American philosopher and Professor Emeritus of Philosophy at the University of Pittsburgh. He was known for defending the A-theory of time against the B-theory.

Table of Contents

Preface  Part One: McTaggart’s Paradox  1. McTaggart’s Paradox  and the language of time  2. The answers to McTaggart’s Paradox   Part Two: A-Determinations and B-Relations  3. The criteria for A- and B-Statements  4. The ineliminability of A-Determinations  5. The non-sensibility of A-Determinations  6. The reduction of B-Relations to A-Determinations   Part Three: Logical Asymmetries between the Past and the Future  7. The impossibility of bringing about the past  8. Future contingents  9. Future individuals  Part Four: The Objectivity of Temporal Becoming  10. A Priori arguments for the subjectivity of becoming  11. Empirical arguments for the subjectivity of becoming