The Network of Time: Understanding Time & Reality through Philosophy, History and Physics

Is time real or is it just an illusion?Time is so basic in our lives that we sometimes take it for granted. But stop for a moment and think: What is time? How can it be defined? If you delve into the definition of the concept of time, not only will you find that the answer to these questions is no trivial matter, but also that surprisingly, no single clear answer has ever been found and agreed upon by all.Written in simple, clear language, the book takes the reader on a fascinating journey down the evolution of defining the concept of time, from antiquity and up to the 21st century. It describes how the revolutionary theories of relativity and quantum mechanics in 20th century physics opened up new directions of thought in this field.Whether you know nothing about the subject or are a professor of physics, Alon Halperin will tell you exactly what you need to know: from philosophical questions about the perception of reality, time travel, determinism and free choice, to the mysteries rooted in quantum theory, up to the complexity theory, and the strikingly fresh insights it gives rise to regarding us and the entire world.