Relational Time

The present paper looks at a particular point of intersection between contemporary physics and metaphysics, and claims that a relatively neglected metaphysical theory could become of interest (again) thanks to the interaction between the two. In particular, the paper discusses the relational view of time, whereby time (but not, at least not necessarily, space) is reduced to a structure of relations between events. The argument takes its main cue from Barbour’s recent ‘Machian’ perspective on physical theory. It is contended that it is possible to endorse Barbour’s basic insights while not following him in his outright rejection of time as a non-existent entity. As a matter of fact, doing this makes it possible to circumvent some problems that Barbour’s theory has to face, especially with respect to the explanation of temporal experience. At the same time, a scientifically credible background to the relational view of time is provided.