Common Sense, Ontology and Time: A Critique of Lynne Rudder Baker's View of Temporal Reality

Abstract

ABSTRACT The aim of this paper is twofold: First, to critically discuss Lynne Rudder's Baker BA-theory of time, and second to contrast it with the R-theory (after Russell). In the course of my discussion I will contrast three different methodological approaches regarding the relation between common sense and ontology; clarify Russell's authentic view in contrast to the B-theory which is McTaggart's misrepresentation of Russell, and consider how the R-theory can respond to objections Baker makes to eternalism (as she understands it).

Keywords

• BA-theory
• R-theory
• B-series
• McTaggart
• growing universe
• absolute becoming