Navigating Time: Toward an Interdisciplinary Theory

by Christopher G. Hudson

Overview

This book develops an interdisciplinary theory of time by resolving conflicts between historic and contemporary theories and clarifying the notion of time competence. Christopher Hudson explores the origins and nature of time, investigating the meaning of its navigation on both an individual and a societal level.

Drawing on Plato’s definition of time as the ‘moving image of eternity,’ Hudson advances a theory that identifies consciousness, change, and eternity as the three essential elements of time. He integrates contemporary phenomenology of the present moment, historical beliefs on consciousness, and philosophical and spiritual ideas about time into a theory that combines a variety of approaches and empirical results. Hudson argues that a comprehensive theory of time requires multiple perspectives, encompassing its objective and subjective dimensions, as well as an understanding of the timeless.

This insightful book is a valuable read for scholars and students interested in the theory of time, particularly those in the disciplines of philosophy, spirituality, psychology, and sociology.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781035367061
Publisher:	Edward Elgar Publishing
Publication date:	01/28/2026
Pages:	316
Product dimensions:	6.12(w) x 9.25(h) x (d)

About the Author

Christopher G. Hudson, Professor Emeritus, School of Social Work, Salem State University, US

Editorial Reviews

‘In this sweeping tour de force, Hudson masterfully dismantles our fragmented understanding of time, reassembling it into an original, unified theory. Drawing on everything from quantum cosmology to ancient spirituality and beyond, he presents a revolutionary understanding of time as the consciousness of change within the context of the timeless.’

Dean Radin

‘This is one of the most important books dealing with the philosophy and science of time written in the last hundred years. It provides an indispensable review of current and historical thinking with regards to this most immediate, and mysterious perception. An informative and inspiring read.’

Anthony Peake

‘This book is an ambitious and provocative contribution to the literature on a subject with historic roots in philosophy, psychology, and theology. Hudson develops an exciting new model that features human consciousness as a central focus for interpreting and expanding our comprehension of the co-existence of time and timelessness. Integrating both the temporal and eternal dimensions of time, the book includes a rigorous analysis of previous theories, taking them to a new level with a bold conceptual leap, perhaps a turning point in the field.’

Allan Y. Cohen

‘This book is an ambitious and provocative contribution to the literature on a subject with historic roots in philosophy, psychology, and theology. Hudson develops an exciting new model that features human consciousness as a central focus for interpreting and expanding our comprehension of the co-existence of time and timelessness. Integrating both the temporal and eternal dimensions of time, the book includes a rigorous analysis of previous theories, taking them to a new level with a bold conceptual leap, perhaps a turning point in the field.’

Allan Y Cohen